Air Fryer Lemon-Pepper Salmon
Bright, zesty, and ready in under 20 minutes, this air fryer lemon-pepper salmon is a gourmet seafood favorite. With a crispy outside and tender, flaky inside, it’s perfect for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.
Equipment
- 1 Air fryer
- 1 Small bowl (for seasoning mix)
- 1 Spoon (to mix/press seasoning)
- 1 Brush or your hands (for oil)
- 1 Tongs or spatula (to remove salmon from air fryer)
- 1 Paper towels (to pat salmon dry)
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets about 4-6 oz each, skin-on, room temperature
- 1 lemon zested and cut into wedges for serving
- ½ teaspoon coarse flaky sea salt or ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
Instructions
- Make the seasoning: Zest the lemon. In a small bowl, combine lemon zest and salt. Lightly grind together with the back of a spoon for 10-15 seconds. Stir in black pepper and garlic powder.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat fillets dry. Brush oil over all sides. Place fillets skin-side down and coat the tops with the lemon-pepper seasoning, pressing gently so it sticks.
- Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Cook salmon fillets for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until internal temperature reaches 125–130°F (51–54°C).
- Serve: Rest for 2 minutes. Remove skin if desired. Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh herbs.
Notes
- Cooking time depends on fillet thickness (thicker fillets may need closer to 12 minutes).
- Avocado oil is preferred for high smoke point, but olive oil works well too.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh parsley or dill before serving.