This Air Fryer Salmon recipe is a simple, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s ready in minutes. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flaky. Paired with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Quick and Easy: Cooks in just 10 minutes for a hassle-free meal.
- Crispy on the Outside, Tender Inside: The air fryer locks in moisture while crisping up the skin.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3s, protein, and essential nutrients.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples for maximum flavor.
- Versatile: Serve with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.
What is Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon?
Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon is a crispy, golden, and flavorful salmon dish cooked in an air fryer with herbs, lemon, and garlic. It’s a healthy and quick way to enjoy salmon with minimal effort.

Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon Recipe Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (skin-on, about 150g each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and let it preheat for 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure crispiness.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, and chili flakes.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
- Place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- No need to flip—the air fryer will cook it evenly.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Serve
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked salmon.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for extra flavor.
- Serve hot with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon
Pairing this dish with the right sides enhances the flavors.
- Garlic Butter Asparagus: A light and crispy side.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfect for soaking up the flavors.
- Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes: A crunchy, satisfying addition.
- Cucumber Yogurt Sauce: A refreshing contrast to the warm salmon.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh, tangy complement.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon
Simple tricks can elevate this dish even further.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly in an air fryer, so check at 8 minutes and adjust.
- Pat Dry Before Cooking: This helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, salmon should reach 60°C (140°F) inside.
- For Extra Crispiness: Lightly spray the salmon with oil before air frying.
- Marinate for More Flavor: Let the salmon sit with the seasoning for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon
This dish is flexible and can be customized in different ways.
- Honey Garlic Salmon: Add 1 tablespoon of honey for a sweet glaze.
- Spicy Cajun Salmon: Swap paprika for Cajun seasoning.
- Asian-Inspired Salmon: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger instead of paprika.
- Pesto Salmon: Spread pesto over the fillets before air frying.
- Lemon Herb Salmon: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for a herby twist.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon?
Proper storage keeps the salmon fresh and tasty.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Option: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Best Storage Tip: Keep the skin on to help retain moisture.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon Leftovers?
Reheating properly keeps the salmon moist and delicious.
- Air Fryer Method: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 3-4 minutes.
- Oven Method: Warm at 160°C (320°F) for 8-10 minutes.
- Microwave Approach: Heat in 30-second intervals, but avoid overcooking.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
A balanced and healthy meal rich in protein and good fats.
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
FAQs
Can I cook frozen salmon in an air fryer?
Yes! Increase cooking time to 12-15 minutes, and add seasoning after the first 5 minutes.
How do I make salmon more flavorful?
Marinate with garlic, lemon, and herbs for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
Can I air-fry salmon with the skin on?
Yes! Cooking skin-side down makes it crispy while keeping the inside moist.
Final Words
This Air Fryer Salmon is a quick, flavorful, and healthy way to prepare salmon with minimal effort. Whether served with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables, this dish is perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Try it today and enjoy restaurant-quality salmon at home!
More Jamie Oliver Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Chicken Shawarma
- Jamie Oliver Microwave Chocolate Pudding
- Jamie Oliver Blueberry Pancakes

Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 8-10
- Total Time: 48 minute
- Yield: 2 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon is a crispy, golden, and flavorful salmon dish cooked in an air fryer with herbs, lemon, and garlic. It’s a healthy and quick way to enjoy salmon with minimal effort.
Ingredients
-
-
-
- 2 salmon fillets (skin-on, about 150g each)
-
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
-
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika for extra flavor)
-
- ½ teaspoon salt
-
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
-
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
-
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
-
- Juice of ½ lemon
-
- Lemon wedges, for serving
-
- Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish, optional)
-
-
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
-
- Set the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and let it preheat for 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
-
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure crispiness.
-
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, and chili flakes.
-
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
-
- Place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
-
- Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
-
- No need to flip—the air fryer will cook it evenly.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Serve
-
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked salmon.
-
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for extra flavor.
-
- Serve hot with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.