Pin it
This air fryer salmon with lemon garlic dill butter is a quick and delicious way to enjoy perfectly cooked salmon without any fuss. In just 10 minutes, you get a flaky tender fillet infused with bright citrus and aromatic herbs that feels like a special occasion but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
I first made this on a busy weeknight when I needed something fast but tasty. Since then it has become a family favorite that I cook whenever I want a no hassle, elegant meal.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: look for fresh or thawed wild or farmraised salmon for best flavor skin on or off based on your preference
- Salt and pepper: to season and enhance the natural flavor of the fish
- Large lemon: sliced for placing under salmon and for fresh juice in the butter
- Salted butter, room temperature: provides a creamy base and helps carry the lemon and dill flavors
- Garlic cloves, minced: adds savory depth and aroma fresh garlic is best
- Lemon juice, freshly squeezed: brightens the dish and balances the butter richness
- Dried dill: classic herb pairing with salmon freeze dried works great if fresh is not available
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Make the lemon garlic dill butter by combining the room temperature salted butter with minced garlic, fresh squeezed lemon juice, dried dill, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside so the flavors meld together.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture and help the seasoning stick. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on both sides of the fillets to enhance flavor.
- Arrange Salmon in Air Fryer:
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with a nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place lemon slices in the basket and gently set the salmon fillets on top of the lemons. This adds a fragrant steam while cooking.
- Add the Flavorful Butter:
- Place a dollop of the prepared lemon garlic dill butter over each salmon fillet. This will melt and infuse the fish with bright herb and citrus notes during cooking.
- Air Fry to Perfection:
- Cook the salmon at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, adjusting time slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a gentle poke but is still moist inside. Err on the side of slightly underdone rather than overcooked.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Optionally add another spoonful of the lemon garlic dill butter on top before serving. This recipe pairs beautifully with steamed asparagus or a fresh mixed green salad for a light and balanced meal.
Pin it
The lemon garlic dill butter is my favorite part because it adds brightness and richness that elevates simple salmon to something special. I have fond memories of cooking this for a family dinner and getting everyone to try fresh dill for the first time — we all fell in love with how perfect it is with salmon.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven to maintain moisture without drying out the salmon.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap frozen dill for fresh or omit it if needed, though dill is the classic pairing for salmon. Use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt if preferred. Garlic powder can stand in for fresh minced garlic in a pinch but fresh is best.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus carrots or green beans. A side of quinoa rice or a crisp green salad complements the dish perfectly.
Pin it
This air fryer salmon is a fast, elegant weeknight meal that never disappoints. The lemon garlic dill butter makes each bite bright and rich.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can the salmon skin be left on during cooking?
Yes, the skin can stay on or be removed based on preference. The air frying method works well either way.
- → How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
Gently poke the center of the fillet; it should flake easily but remain moist, aiming for medium rare rather than overcooked.
- → What is the difference between wild caught and farm-raised salmon?
Wild caught salmon has a darker color and more intense flavor; farm-raised tends to be milder and more affordable.
- → Can frozen salmon be used for this method?
Yes, frozen salmon works well and is a convenient option if fresh salmon is unavailable locally.
- → What temperature and time are best for air frying?
Air fry at 390°F for about 10 minutes, adjusting time depending on thickness of the fillets.
- → What sides pair well with this salmon preparation?
Asparagus, mixed green salad, or steamed vegetables complement this flavorful salmon dish nicely.