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Juicy air fryer salmon fillet topped with garlic herb butter seasoning, served with lemon wedges and parsley on a ceramic plate over a bright marble countertop.
Print Recipe

Air Fryer Salmon With Mayo - Fast, Juicy, and Foolproof

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Salmon fillets (4 pieces, 5–6 ounces each; skin-on or skinless)
  • Mayonnaise (about 2–3 tablespoons total)
  • Lemon (zest and wedges for serving)
  • Garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic)
  • Paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Olive oil spray (optional, for the air fryer basket)
  • Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil if sticking is a concern.
  • Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Dry fish browns better and the mayo adheres more evenly.
  • Season the fillets with salt and pepper. Add a light sprinkle of garlic powder and paprika.
  • Spread a thin layer of mayo over the top of each fillet—about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons per piece. You want a visible but not gloopy coat.
  • Add lemon zest over the mayo for brightness. Save the wedges for serving.
  • Arrange the salmon in the air fryer basket, mayo side up, with a little space between pieces for airflow.
  • Air fry for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness. Most 1-inch-thick fillets cook in about 9 minutes. The mayo will turn lightly golden and the salmon will flake easily.
  • Check doneness: The internal temperature should reach 125–130°F for medium and up to 145°F if you prefer fully cooked. Adjust based on your taste.
  • Rest 2 minutes, then garnish with herbs and serve with lemon wedges.