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Quick Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Dill Butter

quick crispy air fryer salmon - featured image

A fast and easy recipe for crispy skin salmon cooked in the air fryer, topped with a bright and fresh lemon dill butter. Perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Salmon fillets, skin-on, about 6 oz (170 g) each, preferably wild-caught
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, about 1/4 teaspoon each per fillet
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh dill
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lemon dill butter: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh dill, and 1 small minced garlic clove. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  3. Rub each fillet with about 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper (about 1/4 teaspoon each per fillet).
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching.
  6. Cook for 8-10 minutes depending on thickness (about 9 minutes for 1-inch thick fillets) until the salmon flakes easily and the skin is crisp and golden.
  7. Check for doneness: internal temperature should be about 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare to medium. Add 1-2 minutes if you prefer more cooked salmon, but avoid drying out.
  8. Carefully remove the salmon with a spatula or tongs and place on a plate skin side up.
  9. Dollop a generous spoonful of lemon dill butter on top while the salmon is still hot so it melts beautifully.
  10. Serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the salmon dry is essential for crispy skin. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Add lemon dill butter only after cooking to avoid burning. The lemon dill butter can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to deepen flavors. For reheating leftovers, warm in a 300°F oven for about 8 minutes to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, crispy salmon, lemon dill butter, quick salmon recipe, healthy salmon, easy dinner, seafood