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Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Salmon - Fast, Fresh, and Full of Flavor

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Salmon fillets (4 fillets, 5–6 ounces each; skin-on or skinless)
  • Olive oil (1–2 tablespoons)
  • Lemon (1 large; you’ll use the zest and juice)
  • Lemon pepper seasoning (1–1.5 teaspoons)
  • Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Kosher salt (to taste; start with 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (optional, to taste if your lemon pepper is mild)
  • Fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
  • Cooking spray (for the air fryer basket, if needed)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer. Set it to 400°F (200°C) and let it run for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket promotes better browning.
  2. Prepare the salmon. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Drying helps the seasoning stick and prevents steaming.
  3. Season generously. Rub the salmon with olive oil. Sprinkle on lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and a little black pepper if needed. Grate fresh lemon zest over the top for extra zing.
  4. Prep the basket. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, or lay down a perforated parchment liner designed for air fryers.
  5. Arrange the fillets. Place salmon in the basket skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Leave a bit of space between pieces so air can circulate.
  6. Air fry. Cook for 7–10 minutes at 400°F, depending on thickness. Thinner fillets (about 1 inch thick) may finish at 7 minutes; thicker pieces may need up to 10.
  7. Check for doneness. The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 125–130°F for medium or 140°F for well-done, depending on your preference. It will carryover-cook a little as it rests.
  8. Finish with lemon. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked salmon. Add chopped parsley or dill for a bright, fresh finish.
  9. Serve. Pair with simple sides like roasted vegetables, a green salad, rice, or quinoa.