Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the skin is completely dry, which helps it crisp up in the air fryer.
Mix the minced garlic with melted butter and lemon juice in a small bowl until well combined to create the garlic butter mixture.
Brush the garlic butter generously over the top and sides of the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated for flavor and moisture.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking and help crisp the skin.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching for even cooking.
Cook the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping the fillets once halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the fish is just opaque and flaky.
During the last minute of cooking, brush the fillets with any remaining garlic butter for extra flavor and shine.
Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with chopped herbs if desired.
Serve immediately, enjoying the crispy skin, tender meat, and fragrant garlic butter with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
