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# Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter: Easy Recipe for a Delicious Meal

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option, this **Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter** recipe is perfect for you. Using an air fryer not only reduces cooking time but also ensures your salmon comes out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Plus, the garlic butter adds a rich, savory touch that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality status. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

## Why Choose Air Fryer Salmon?

Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins. Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a game-changer because it requires less oil, cooks faster, and produces a crispy texture without the mess of deep frying. Compared to traditional baking or pan-searing, air frying locks in moisture, making the fish juicy and flavorful.

If you’re already a fan of air fryer recipes like **air fryer chicken**, you’ll appreciate how versatile and convenient this cooking method is. Just like air fryer chicken, salmon cooks evenly and quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

## Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

– 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

## Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter

### 1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated. This garlic butter mixture will infuse the salmon with a rich, zesty flavor.

### 2. Season the Salmon Fillets

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a crispy finish. Brush both sides of the salmon generously with the garlic butter sauce.

### 3. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a nice sear on the salmon.

### 4. Cook the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow hot air circulation. Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

### 5. Serve and Garnish

Remove the salmon from the air fryer and spoon any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

## Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon

– **Do not overcrowd the basket:** Leave enough space between fillets to ensure even cooking.
– **Use fresh garlic:** Freshly minced garlic provides a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced or powdered garlic.
– **Check doneness early:** Air fryers vary, so start checking your salmon a minute or two before the recommended time.
– **Try different seasonings:** Feel free to experiment with dill, thyme, or smoked paprika for different flavor profiles.

## Why Air Fryer Salmon is a Healthy Choice

Air frying salmon is a healthier alternative to frying in oil because it uses significantly less fat while maintaining flavor and texture. Salmon itself is rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health. Pairing it with garlic butter adds flavor without excessive calories, especially when you control the amount of butter used.

If you enjoy **air fryer chicken** recipes for their health benefits and convenience, you’ll find that air fryer salmon fits perfectly into a balanced diet.

## Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Salmon

This garlic butter salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

– Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans
– A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
– Quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
– Garlic mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries for a heartier meal

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

### Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen salmon in the air fryer, but it will take longer—about 12-15 minutes at 400°F. It’s best to thaw the salmon first for even cooking and better flavor absorption.

### How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil before placing the salmon. Also, pat the salmon dry to reduce sticking.

### Can I use this garlic butter sauce for other seafood?

Absolutely! This garlic butter sauce works great with shrimp, scallops, or even air fryer chicken breasts, adding a delicious garlicky richness.

### How do I store leftover air fryer salmon?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to avoid drying out the fish.

### Is air fryer salmon better than baked salmon?

Both methods are healthy, but air frying tends to produce a crispier exterior and cooks faster than baking. It’s a great option when you want a quick meal with minimal cleanup.

## Incorporating Air Fryer Chicken into Your Meal Plan

While this recipe focuses on salmon, many home cooks love the versatility of the air fryer for various proteins. If you’re planning a week of easy, healthy dinners, consider alternating between **air fryer chicken** and salmon recipes. Both cook quickly, require minimal prep, and can be paired with a wide range of sides.

For example, you might prepare air fryer chicken thighs with a spicy rub one night and then enjoy this garlic butter salmon the next. The air fryer’s convenience allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

## Conclusion

This **Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter** recipe is a simple, tasty, and nutritious way to enjoy seafood at home. The air fryer makes cooking salmon fast and easy, while the garlic butter adds a burst of flavor that will satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of air fryer chicken or new to air frying altogether, this recipe is a must-try for healthy weeknight dinners.

Try this recipe today and enjoy perfectly cooked salmon that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with garlic butter goodness!

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**Keywords:** air fryer chicken, air fryer salmon, garlic butter salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon dinner

Keyword: air fryer chicken