Air-Fried Salmon with Lemon Butter Recipe

Introduction

This succulent air-fried salmon recipe offers a delicious and quick way to enjoy perfectly cooked fish with a bright lemon butter sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a healthy and flavorful meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 150–200g salmon fillets (per serving)
• 30g butter (2 tablespoons)
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 1 clove of garlic (freshly pressed)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 bunch of fresh dill (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Take the salmon fillets out of the refrigerator and pat them dry with kitchen paper to remove moisture.
2. Step 2: Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and pepper and place them flat in a bowl.
3. Step 3: Mix the softened butter with the pressed garlic, the juice of half a lemon, and the zest of the other half to form a creamy paste.
4. Step 4: Spread half of the butter and lemon paste on top of the salmon fillets and rub it in gently.
5. Step 5: Place the fillets in the air fryer basket lined with baking paper, with the seasoned side facing up.
6. Step 6: Set the air fryer to 180 degrees Celsius and cook the salmon for 8–10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet.
7. Step 7: Open the basket after 5 minutes and pour the remaining butter and lemon paste over the fish.
8. Step 8: Check the cooking point: the salmon should easily flake into pieces and be opaque inside.
9. Step 9: Remove the salmon and let it rest on the plate for 2 minutes.
10. Step 10: Sprinkle the cooked salmon with fresh, chopped dill and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use skin-on salmon fillets for extra flavor and crispiness if desired.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the butter mixture for a subtle kick.
• Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• If fresh dill is unavailable, substitute with fresh parsley or chives.

Storage

Store leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low-temperature oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. For best texture, consume leftovers cold in a salad or sandwich.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets but be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to ensure even cooking and crisp texture.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 12–15 minutes, following the same preparation and butter application steps.

Air-Fried Salmon with Lemon Butter Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 105 reviews

This recipe for succulent air-fried salmon delivers perfectly cooked, flaky fillets with a rich lemon butter flavor in just 15 minutes. Infused with garlic and fresh dill, this quick and healthy dish is ideal for a nutritious dinner and highlights the ease and speed of air frying for tender, flavorful seafood.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 15-20 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: International
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salmon

• 150–200g salmon fillets per serving
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon olive oil

Lemon Butter Mixture

• 30g butter (2 tablespoons), softened
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 1 clove garlic, freshly pressed

Garnish

• 1 bunch fresh dill (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon: Remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator and pat them dry thoroughly with kitchen paper to remove any excess moisture, ensuring better browning during cooking.
2. Season the Fillets: Generously season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper. Place the fillets flat in a bowl to prepare for the lemon butter application.
3. Make Lemon Butter Paste: Combine the softened butter with freshly pressed garlic, the juice of half a lemon, and the zest of the other half. Mix well until it forms a creamy, flavorful paste.
4. Coat the Salmon: Spread half of the lemon butter paste evenly on top of the salmon fillets, gently rubbing it in to infuse the flavors.
5. Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Line the air fryer basket with baking paper to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets in the basket with the seasoned side facing up for even cooking.
6. Start Air Frying: Set the air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and cook the salmon for 8–10 minutes. Timing depends on fillet thickness; monitor for doneness.
7. Midway Baste: After 5 minutes, open the basket and pour the remaining lemon butter paste over the salmon to enhance moisture and flavor.
8. Check for Doneness: The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and appears opaque inside, indicating thorough cooking without dryness.
9. Rest the Salmon: Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest on a plate for 2 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
10. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the cooked salmon with freshly chopped dill for a bright, herbal finish and serve warm for best flavor.

Notes

• Ensure the salmon fillets are dry to promote better browning and a crispy finish.
• Adjust air fryer time slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets to avoid over or undercooking.
• Fresh dill is optional but adds a lovely, fresh flavor that complements lemon and garlic.
• Use baking paper specifically designed for air fryers to prevent blocking air circulation.
• Leftover lemon butter paste can be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Keywords: air-fried salmon, lemon butter salmon, quick salmon recipe, healthy salmon dish, air fryer seafood, lemon garlic butter salmon