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Crispy Pepper-Crusted Air Fryer Salmon

This dish features skin-on salmon fillets coated with freshly cracked black pepper and a light brush of olive oil, then cooked in the air fryer until the skin is irresistibly crispy. The high heat creates a crackling pepper crust that beautifully contrasts with the tender, flaky flesh of the fish, resulting in a visually appealing and flavorful main course.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces salmon fillets preferably skin-on, firm flesh
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper freshly cracked
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil for brushing
  • to taste salt kosher or sea salt
  • 1 lemon lemon optional, for serving

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Small brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes to get it ready for cooking.
  2. Gently pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels; this helps achieve crispiness.
  3. Lightly brush the top of each fillet with olive oil using a small brush; this helps the cracked pepper adhere and promotes even browning.
  4. Generously crack fresh black pepper over the oil-brushed side of the salmon, creating an even coating that will form a beautiful, aromatic crust during cooking.
  5. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the pepper-coated surface to enhance flavor.
  6. Place the salmon fillets, skin-side down, into the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching for even air circulation.
  7. Cook the salmon for 8-10 minutes, or until the pepper crust crackles and turns golden, and the flesh feels firm yet springy when pressed.
  8. Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute to allow the juices to settle.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets if desired, adding a bright, zesty flavor that complements the crispy pepper crust.
  10. Serve immediately, showcasing the crispy pepper crust and tender, flaky flesh of the salmon, perfect for a satisfying main course.