Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Fillets (Air Fryer Recipe)
Introduction:
This Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is the perfect weeknight dinner—quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The air fryer delivers a crispy top and tender flaky center in just minutes. The rich garlic butter sauce soaks into the salmon, while lemon adds the perfect zing. Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself, this dish feels gourmet with minimal effort!
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 8–10 minutes
Rest: 2 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
2 to 4 skin-on salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (plus more for serving)
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
2 lemon slices (optional, for air frying with fillets)
Instructions:
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Prepare the Salmon:
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Place them skin-side down on a plate or tray.
Make Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Brush or spoon the sauce generously over each fillet.
Air Fry the Salmon:
Lightly grease the air fryer basket or use parchment liners.
Place fillets skin-side down in the basket with some space between each.
Optional: Place a thin lemon slice on top of each fillet.
Air Fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness.
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium, or up to 145°F (63°C) for well done.
Rest and Garnish:
Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes. Spoon any remaining lemon garlic butter over the top and garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon juice.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with roasted vegetables, garlic rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Try it over pasta tossed with olive oil and capers for a Mediterranean-style meal.
Tips for Success:
Use fillets of even thickness for consistent cooking.
For extra crispy edges, increase cooking time by 1–2 minutes.
Leftovers? Flake into a salad or wrap with avocado and greens!