Air Fryer Salmon With Garlic Butter

Name: Air Fryer Salmon With Garlic Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Mindful Meal Ideas

I love making Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter because it's quick and packed with flavor. The salmon turns out perfectly flaky and tender, thanks to the air fryer that locks in moisture while giving it a nice crisp exterior. Preparing this dish is a breeze, and the garlic butter elevates it to a restaurant-quality meal. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. Plus, the clean-up is minimal, which is always a bonus in my book!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:33:35.406Z

When I first tried making salmon in the air fryer, I was skeptical about how it would turn out. To my surprise, the fish was cooked evenly and retained its vibrant flavor. I like to marinate the salmon in garlic, lemon juice, and Italian herbs before cooking, as it really enhances the taste. The key is ensuring the air fryer is preheated, as this helps achieve that golden-brown crust we all crave.

One detail that has significantly improved my results is using a good quality butter combined with freshly minced garlic. Not only does it add incredible richness, but it also creates a delightful sauce that can be drizzled over the salmon just before serving. I've found that drizzling it on towards the end of cooking imparts a lovely, aromatic flavor to the dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that enhances the natural taste of salmon
Quick cooking time, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and nutritious, packed with omega-3s
Minimal cleanup with no frying mess

Mastering Garlic Butter

Garlic butter is the star of this dish, amplifying the richness of the salmon while adding layers of flavor. When preparing the garlic butter, it’s important to watch the heat carefully. Cooking the minced garlic over low heat keeps it from burning, which can impart a bitter taste. Stir frequently until it becomes fragrant—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The addition of lemon juice not only brightens the flavor but also interacts with the butter, creating a decadent coating that enhances the salmon's natural oils.

For a more complex flavor, consider infusing the butter with herbs or spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat, while fresh dill or thyme pairs beautifully with the salmon. If you're short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and add it to the melted butter when you take it off the heat for a milder flavor. This flexibility in the garlic butter recipe allows you to customize it to your palate without compromising the dish.

Perfecting Salmon Fillets

When selecting salmon fillets, look for pieces that appear moist and have vibrant coloring. Fresh salmon should have minimal odor and a fleshy texture that bounces back when pressed gently. For this recipe, both skin-on and skinless salmon can be used, but I prefer skin-on for added flavor and moisture retention. If you're using frozen salmon, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a zip-top bag under cold running water for quicker thawing, which helps maintain its texture during cooking.

Patting the fillets dry with a paper towel is a small yet crucial step. This removes excess moisture, allowing for better seasoning adhesion and a more appealing crisp. When seasoning, don’t be shy with salt and pepper; these enhance the natural flavors of the fish. A good tip is to let the seasoned fillets rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps the seasoning penetrate the fish deeply, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the air fryer salmon is delicious on its own, it pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a simple salad or steamed vegetables to complement the richness of the salmon. Quinoa or couscous seasoned with lemon and herbs can add a hearty grain component, making for a complete meal. When entertaining, feel free to offer a creamy dill sauce or zesty yogurt sauce as a dipping option, which will round out the flavors and impress your guests.

For those looking to experiment, you can switch the protein with other fish like trout or tilapia, adjusting the cooking time based on thickness. Alternatively, add different marinades prior to cooking; a teriyaki glaze or honey mustard would yield delightful results. If you're cooking for meal prep, the salmon can be enjoyed cold on salads the next day, maintaining its excellent flavor and texture, which makes it not only a quick dinner option but also great for lunches.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and lemon juice, stirring frequently until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket and brush half of the garlic butter mixture over the top of the fillets. Cook for 8 minutes.

Finish Cooking

After 8 minutes, brush the remaining garlic butter over the fillets and cook for an additional 4 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Remove from the air fryer and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider marinating the salmon for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Adjust the garlic and herbs to your taste for different flavor profiles.

Troubleshooting

If your salmon fillets aren’t cooking through as expected, it may be due to their thickness. Thicker fillets might require a longer cooking time of up to an additional 2-4 minutes. If you're uncertain, use a fork to gently test for flakiness or check with a food thermometer; salmon is perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If they appear to dry out, decrease air fryer heat slightly during the second half of cooking to prevent over-drying.

Sometimes, if the exterior of the salmon isn’t crisping up as much as you’d like, it’s helpful to throw in a quick broil for the last minute or two. Just be cautious not to step away, as broiling can quickly transition from nicely browned to burnt. Alternatively, ensure you're not overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can prepare the garlic butter up to three days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before using it to regain its pourable consistency. This makes the meal quick to assemble on a busy night; simply season your salmon, cook it in the air fryer, and apply the butter for the finishing touch.

Leftover salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its moisture, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. When reheating, opt for low heat, either in the air fryer for a couple of minutes or in the microwave on low power settings to prevent it from drying out.

Nutritional Benefits

Salmon is well-known for its health benefits, particularly because it's rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are essential for heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties. Cooking salmon in an air fryer not only preserves these beneficial oils but also minimizes the need for added fats compared to traditional frying methods, making this dish a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Additionally, this recipe provides a good source of proteins and essential vitamins, such as B vitamins, which contribute to energy metabolism and brain health. When served alongside nutrient-dense side options like leafy greens or whole grains, this meal becomes a powerhouse of nutrition, keeping you satisfied and energized throughout the day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes, and ensure it's cooked through.

→ What side dishes pair well with this salmon?

This salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! You can use any firm white fish, but cooking times may vary. Adjust accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer for best results.