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Garlic-Crusted Air Fryer Salmon

This dish features tender salmon fillets with a crispy, golden garlic crust achieved through quick air frying. The main ingredients include skin-on salmon, fresh garlic, and olive oil, creating a flavorful contrast of crunchy exterior and flaky interior. The final result is a visually appealing, crispy-topped piece of salmon with a juicy, moist center.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets salmon fillets preferably skin-on
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil good quality
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh or bottled
  • to taste salt preferably coarse sea salt
  • to taste black pepper freshly ground
  • optional parsley or dill chopped, for garnish
  • light spray cooking spray or line with parchment

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Kitchen knife
  • Small bowl
  • Cooking brush

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then place them on a plate. Mix minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create the garlic rub.
  2. Brush the garlic mixture evenly over the top and sides of each fillet, ensuring a good coating for maximum flavor and crispness.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and line the basket with parchment or lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  4. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down into the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching for even crisping.
  5. Set the air fryer to cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes. As it cooks, you'll hear a sizzle and smell roasted garlic filling the kitchen.
  6. Check the salmon at around 8 minutes; the garlic crust should be golden and crispy, and the fish should flake easily with a fork.
  7. Remove the salmon carefully from the air fryer, sprinkle with chopped parsley or dill if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the crispy garlic crust with tender, juicy fish.

Notes

For extra crispiness, increase the cooking time slightly or broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until crispy.