Air Fryer Salmon With Garlic Butter

Name: Air Fryer Salmon With Garlic Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Light Wellness Dishes

I love preparing salmon because it’s one of the quickest and healthiest meals I can make. The air fryer has become my go-to method for cooking salmon, as it not only locks in moisture but also gives it a gorgeous, crispy finish. This Salmon with Garlic Butter recipe is a personal favorite because the rich, savory flavors enhance the natural taste of the fish perfectly. In just a few minutes, I can whip up this dish that feels both elegant and comfortingly familiar.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:17:35.837Z

When I first discovered cooking salmon in the air fryer, it was a game changer. I had always been worried about overcooking it, but the air fryer’s temperature control makes it so reliable. I like to whip up a garlic butter sauce that not only elevates the salmon's flavor but also infuses every bite with deliciousness. This is truly a dish you can make on a busy weeknight or impress guests with on special occasions.

One great tip I've learned is to let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This minor step helps the fish cook more evenly. Pair it with a light salad or some roasted veggies, and you have a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor with buttery goodness
Quick and easy cooking process in under 30 minutes
Perfectly flaky salmon that's crispy on the outside

Perfecting the Garlic Butter

The garlic butter mixture is the star of this recipe, and the method you use to prepare it can significantly enhance its flavor. I recommend using fresh garlic cloves—mincing them finely releases essential oils that add depth to the dish. If you're short on time, you can substitute with pre-minced garlic, but freshly minced is always best for that punch of flavor. Aim for a glossy butter blend, which will coat the salmon evenly and promote better browning in the air fryer.

Since the butter serves as both flavor and moisture for the salmon, don't skip on the quality. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you want a richer flavor, consider using clarified butter (ghee), as it can withstand higher cooking temperatures without burning, ensuring your garlic remains fragrant and doesn't turn bitter during the cooking process.

Achieving the Perfect Flake

When cooking salmon, the goal is to achieve that beautifully flaky texture without drying it out. The air fryer excels in this area by providing rapid circulation of hot air, which locks in moisture. Keep an eye on the salmon as it cooks; you’ll know it's ready when the fish is opaque and flakes easily when you gently press it with a fork. Typically, thinner fillets may need only 10 minutes, while thicker cuts might take up to 12 minutes, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

If you find that your salmon isn't cooking evenly, try arranging the fillets in a single layer, ensuring there's enough space around them for air to circulate. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and steaming rather than frying, which affects the crispiness we are aiming for with this recipe.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Air Fryer Salmon:

Ingredients

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

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking steps.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to cook your Air Fryer Salmon:

Prepare the marinade

In a bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the salmon

Brush the salmon fillets with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring even coverage on both sides. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air fry the salmon

Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish and serve

Remove the salmon from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Butter!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, try adding a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade. It enhances the flavor and adds a unique twist to the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, let the salmon cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 2-3 days, but for the best texture, try to consume it within the first day. Reheating can be tricky; to preserve moisture, I recommend gently reheating in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps retain the crispiness without drying the fish out.

Freezing is an option if you want to extend the life of your salmon. Wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. It’s best not to refreeze previously thawed salmon, as this can degrade the quality.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to swap out the salmon for other fish such as trout or cod. They will require similar cooking times and can benefit from the same garlic butter mixture. You can also experiment with different flavor profiles; try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the garlic mix for a tangy twist or some chili flakes for a touch of heat.

For a Mediterranean twist, sprinkle in some dried oregano or thyme, which complements the lemon juice beautifully. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider serving the salmon on a bed of steamed vegetables or a light salad instead of heavier sides. This dish is versatile and can easily be tailored to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before marinating.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

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

→ What can I serve with air fryer salmon?

Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or rice for a complete meal.

→ Can I use other seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill, thyme, or a spicy seasoning blend for a twist.