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Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus

crispy air fryer lemon herb salmon - featured image

A quick and healthy dinner recipe featuring crispy air fryer salmon with bright lemon and fresh herbs, served alongside tender asparagus. Perfect for busy weeknights and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170g each), fresh or thawed
  • 1 pound (450g) asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large lemon, zest and juice separated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: squeeze of honey

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Zest the lemon over the fillets, then squeeze half the lemon juice on top. Set aside for 5 minutes.
  2. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus (about 1-2 inches). In a mixing bowl, toss asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, half the fresh herbs (dill, parsley, thyme), salt, and pepper.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Arrange the asparagus around the fillets in a single layer.
  5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes. Check at 10 minutes for doneness; salmon should flake easily and asparagus should be tender but crisp. Add 1-2 more minutes if needed.
  6. Drizzle the remaining lemon juice over the salmon and asparagus. Sprinkle the remaining fresh herbs on top. Add red pepper flakes or honey if desired.
  7. Serve immediately with a lemon wedge.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin. Preheat air fryer for best results. Avoid overcrowding the basket to maintain crispiness. If asparagus cooks faster, remove early and keep warm. Can substitute asparagus with green beans, broccolini, or snap peas. For oven cooking, roast at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, lemon herb salmon, healthy dinner, asparagus recipe, quick salmon recipe, crispy salmon, easy dinner