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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe: Easy Garlic Herb Butter for Perfect Dinner

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This crispy air fryer salmon recipe delivers restaurant-style crunch with tender, juicy fish inside, topped with a rich garlic herb butter. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on preferred
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried parsley)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or substitute basil or chives)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Pinch of kosher salt
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Extra chopped herbs (parsley, dill, or chives), for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and lay skin-side down on a plate or tray.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Brush or spoon the oil and seasoning mixture evenly over the tops and sides of each fillet. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
  5. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped dill, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well blended.
  6. Lightly spray or brush air fryer basket with oil or use a parchment liner.
  7. Arrange salmon fillets in the basket, skin-side down and not touching. Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness.
  8. When salmon is done, spoon or brush garlic herb butter over each fillet. Let rest for 2-3 minutes.
  9. Transfer salmon to plates, sprinkle with extra herbs, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

For best crispiness, pat salmon dry and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor, but dried herbs work in a pinch. Butter can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. For dairy-free, substitute vegan butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, crispy salmon, garlic herb butter, easy salmon recipe, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, low carb, healthy salmon, quick salmon, seafood

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