Easy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

Yummy salmon recipes

Salmon is the perfect fish to air fry! It's a moist, fatty fish, full of omega-3s, that cooks up quickly while still staying moist and tender.

Of course, there are other ways to cook salmon, such as Honey Soy Glazed Salmon for Asian flavor or, if baking, this Bloody Mary Salmon or Everything Bagel Salmon, and we can't our favorite summertime Grilled Salmon with red pepper sauce for another perfect option.

However, nothing beats the quickness, ease of cooking, and almost non-existent cleanup that the air fryer provides. Just follow the few tips below for the perfect juicy salmon every time.

Why this is the best air fryer salmon recipe to make for dinner

This air fryer salmon and asparagus dinner is quick, easy to make, and takes less than 15 minutes.

Ideal for every day or a romantic Valentine's Day, date night, or anniversary dinner for two.

A healthy meal that is a great source of protein and easily fits low carb, low calorie, and keto lifestyles.

The rich, awesome lemon butter sauce uses butter to add richness while the addition of lemon brightens the flavor. A quick toss in the microwave with garlic and rosemary adds another tasty dimension that pairs perfectly with fish. It also works great on chicken, just sayin'.

Check out that color! You can almost taste the moist tenderness and savory flavors just by looking at it!

Ingredients

This easy air fryer meal comes together with simple and fresh ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

Salmon and Asparagus

• Salmon fillets – Fresh, skin-on fillets work best for an extra crispy texture.
• Asparagus – Trim the woody ends for the best texture.
• Salt & pepper – Simple seasonings that let the fresh ingredients shine.

Lemon Butter Sauce

• Butter – Makes the sauce rich and velvety.
• Lemon juice – Adds brightness and a fresh citrusy kick.
• Minced garlic – Brings depth and a hint of savory goodness.
• Fresh rosemary – A fragrant herb that pairs beautifully with salmon.

Garnishes

• Lemon slices – Adds a fresh pop of citrus flavor and makes for a beautiful presentation.
• Fresh parsley – Fresh herbs are best, adding a light, herby touch that brightens up the dish.
• Fresh rosemary – Extra rosemary for an aromatic finish.

Cooking air fryer salmon with skin

Some salmon is sold with the skin still on while other selections are just pure skinless fillets. I prefer to cook air fryer salmon with the skin on because it helps keep the moistness in the fish as well as holding it together.

And if you are wondering if you should use fresh fish or frozen, the answer is either! If using frozen salmon, just let it thaw in the refrigerator and then cook as directed. They both come out wonderfully flaky and flavorful.

How to cook salmon and asparagus in an air fryer

Cooking salmon and asparagus in the air fryer is incredibly easy - just season and air fry. Check out the recipe card below for the exact measurements.

1. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper. You don't need any more flavor than that as the lemon butter sauce will do the rest. Place the seasoned salmon, skin side down, and asparagus (totally optional) in the preheated air fryer. Lightly spray the top of the fish and asparagus with an olive oil spray.
2. Air fry salmon at 380°F for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness of the salmon. You will notice the color of the salmon change to an orangey or pinkish-white opaque color signaling it is done.

How to make lemon butter sauce for salmon

Making garlic lemon butter sauce is a breeze! It comes together in seconds and makes this dish truly shine! Here are the simple steps and some photos:

1. Place all the ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Heat in the microwave on high for 1 minute or until butter is melted. Stir to mix flavors.

3. Plate air fried salmon on top of riced cauliflower or white rice then drizzle warm lemon garlic butter sauce over it just before serving. The rice absorbs any excess lemon butter sauce and makes it truly scrumptious!

This delicious salmon dinner looks complicated but it is so quick and easy anyone can make it. Perfect for busy weeknights, date night or special occasions. It's what makes this air fryer salmon and asparagus one of my favorite recipes.

Tips for the perfect air fryer salmon

• Make sure your fillets, whether skin on or off, are brightly colored and free from any discoloration.
• Purchase fillets that are of the same thickness throughout, preferably 1 to 1-½-inches thick.
• Pat salmon dry with a paper towel and season by rubbing gently into flesh.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Give the salmon and asparagus space so they cook evenly.
• Adjust cooking time based on thickness. Thicker salmon fillets may need closer to 10 minutes, while thinner fillets may be ready in 8 minutes.
• Remove salmon immediately from the hot air fryer basket to stop possible overcooking.
• Serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer while the salmon is hot and flaky.
• Fresh lemon juice is best. Skip the bottled stuff. Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the sauce a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Leftovers

Store any leftover salmon and asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lemon butter sauce separate so you can drizzle it over the salmon just before serving.

To freeze, wrap the cooled salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Asparagus doesn’t freeze well, so it's best to enjoy it fresh. Thaw salmon overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat in the air fryer, set it to 350°F and heat the salmon for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. Add a fresh drizzle of lemon butter sauce to bring back its delicious flavor.