Air Fryer Salmon With Garlic Butter

Name: Air Fryer Salmon With Garlic Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Fresh Lifestyle Meals

I absolutely love making Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter because it’s both simple and incredibly flavorful. The air fryer gives the salmon a crispy exterior while keeping it juicy and tender on the inside. This recipe brings together delicious garlic butter that elevates the salmon, making it a dish the whole family will enjoy. In just under 30 minutes, I can enjoy a gourmet meal that feels indulgent but doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's become a weeknight favorite in my house!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:50:35.327Z

When I first tried making salmon in the air fryer, I was amazed at how quickly it cooked while maintaining that delicious, flaky texture. The garlic butter not only enhances the flavor but also adds an aromatic layer that makes the dish feel so much more sophisticated. I always recommend using fresh garlic for the best results—there’s just something about it that elevates the overall taste.

One tip I learned is to ensure the salmon fillets are dry before seasoning them. This way, you get that perfect crispy crust. Pair it with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad, and you have a complete meal ready in no time. I can't get enough of this recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor that complements the salmon perfectly
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and satisfying, packed with omega-3 fatty acids

      

The Importance of Ingredients

The quality of your salmon can significantly impact the final dish. For the best results, opt for wild-caught salmon if available, as it typically has a more robust flavor and firmer texture compared to farmed varieties. Look for bright, vibrant color and a slight sheen, which indicate freshness. If you're uncertain, don’t hesitate to ask your fishmonger for recommendations based on the day's catch.

In this recipe, the garlic butter plays a crucial role in enhancing the salmon's flavor. Using unsalted butter allows you better control over the seasoning, making it easy to adjust to your taste. Freshly minced garlic is preferred over garlic powder, as it provides a more pungent and aromatic kick that beautifully complements the richness of the salmon.

Perfecting the Air Fryer Technique

Preheating the air fryer is essential to achieve the desired crispy exterior. This initial blast of hot air helps create that golden-brown crust while keeping the inside moist. Be sure to give your air fryer about 5 minutes to reach the right temperature before adding the salmon fillets. Cooking times can vary slightly based on the thickness of the fish, so it's important to check for doneness at around the 10-minute mark.

To prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket, consider lightly greasing it with a cooking spray or brushing a tiny bit of oil on the basket. This ensures that the fillets can be easily removed and keeps clean-up a breeze, making this recipe even more appealing for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on this delicious Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter.

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

With your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking steps to bring this dish to life!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter.

Prep the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each fillet.

Air Fry the Salmon

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 10-12 minutes, until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer, garnish with chopped parsley, and drizzle any remaining garlic butter on top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter. Also, feel free to customize the herbs and spices to suit your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

This Air Fryer Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a healthy option, serve it alongside steamed asparagus or a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. Alternatively, for a comforting meal, consider serving it with fluffy quinoa or roasted sweet potatoes, which add a nice sweetness to balance the savory garlic butter.

To take the dish to a new level, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. Both options enhance the flavor profile and add a nice touch of brightness, ensuring the meal is both delicious and visually appealing.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prep the garlic butter in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This allows for quick assembly during busy nights; simply pull it out and brush it on the salmon right before cooking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the dish's overall taste.

While I recommend enjoying salmon shortly after cooking, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through, which helps maintain its texture. However, keep in mind that reheating may affect the tenderness slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure to thaw the salmon thoroughly before air frying for even cooking.

→ What side dishes pair well with this salmon?

This salmon goes great with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

→ How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I replace the butter with oil?

Absolutely! Olive oil or avocado oil can be used as a lighter alternative.