1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, simply let it run at the cooking temperature for a few minutes.
2. Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a crispy texture.
3. Season the Salmon
Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme (or dill), smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
4. Air Fry the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down if the skin is on. Ensure they are not crowded and there’s space around each fillet for proper air circulation.
5. Cook
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve
Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Sides: Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Sauces: Complement with a lemon dill sauce, garlic butter sauce, or a simple yogurt-based dressing.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon:
- Even Cooking: Ensure the salmon fillets are of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for perfect doneness.
- For Extra Crisp: For extra crispy skin, you can increase the air fryer temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked Air Fryer Salmon! It’s a quick and healthy option that’s packed with flavor and sure to be a hit at your table.