Ingredients

2–4 salmon fillets (skin-on preferred, 5–6 oz each)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried thyme or parsley
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Optional Add-Ons:
1 tsp Dijon mustard (rubbed on before spices for extra depth)
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for a sweet heat glaze)
Fresh chopped herbs for garnish

Directions

Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels (key for crispiness).

Rub with olive oil on both sides.

Season evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne (if using).

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

Place fillets skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket (no overlapping).

Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness:

1-inch thick: about 8 minutes

Thicker: up to 10–11 minutes

Salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium, or up to 145°F (63°C) for well-done.

Rest for 2 minutes, squeeze fresh lemon on top, and serve with your favorite sides.