Description
This Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon is a quick, healthy dinner packed with bold garlic flavor and buttery richness. Ready in just 15 minutes, this easy salmon recipe delivers tender, flaky fillets with a crisp edge—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2–4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
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Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
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In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Spoon or brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the top of each fillet.
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Place salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if using skin-on.
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Air fry for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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Serve hot with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes for heat or drizzle with honey for a sweet-savory flavor.
- Swap parsley for dill or chives for a herby variation.
- Cajun seasoning makes this dish bold and spicy.
- Serve over cauliflower rice, steamed veggies, or salad for a low-carb meal.
- Use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available (½ tsp per 2 fillets).
