Air Fryer Salmon with Dill Sauce (12-Minute Weeknight Meal)

By Rossi Voss | December 2, 2024 | Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 7–9 mins | Servings: 4 | Cost: $4.80/serving

This **Air Fryer Salmon with Dill Sauce** is my go-to when I want a healthy, elegant dinner fast. Crispy outside, flaky inside, and a bright, creamy sauce—all ready in under 12 minutes.

As someone who trained in French kitchens and now writes beginner-friendly cookbooks, I’ve perfected this method so you can serve a restaurant-quality meal without stress. Pair it with fluffy rice, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad.

Why This Recipe Works

• Fast & simple: Ready in 12 minutes with no mess.
• Balanced flavor: Rich salmon, fresh dill, lemon, and Greek yogurt create a bright, creamy sauce.
• Beginner-friendly: No flipping needed—the air fryer does the work.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

For the Dill Sauce

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Dry the salmon: Pat fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Oil lightly: Brush with olive oil to help crisp the skin.
3. Air fry: Place skin-side down in basket. Air fry at 375°F for 7–9 minutes until internal temp reaches 125°F (medium).
4. Make the sauce: Whisk all dill sauce ingredients in a bowl. Chill 5+ minutes for best flavor.
5. Serve: Plate salmon and drizzle with sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges.

Serving Suggestions

• With grains: Serve over fluffy Instant Pot rice or quinoa.
• With veggies: Pair with air-fried green beans, roasted broccoli, or sautéed spinach.
• Meal prep tip: Double the batch and use leftovers in salads or grain bowls.

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently warm in air fryer at 300°F for 3–4 mins to preserve texture.
• Sauce: Keep separate—lasts 5 days in fridge.

Internal Links & Resources

• More seafood recipes
• Air fryer dinners
• Pan-Seared Salmon with Garlic Herb Butter

Cookbook Pick: Want more air fryer perfection? Try my 100 Beginner's Air Fryer Rotisserie Recipes — includes crispy fish, chicken, and veggie meals!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but thaw it in the fridge overnight and pat dry thoroughly. Never cook from frozen if you want a good sear.

Should I flip the salmon in the air fryer?

No! Cooking skin-side down locks in moisture and crisps the skin. Flipping can cause sticking or breakage.

How do I know when salmon is done?

It should be opaque with slight translucency in the center. For precision, use a thermometer: 125°F for medium, 145°F for well-done.

Can I make the dill sauce ahead?

Yes! The sauce tastes even better after chilling 30+ minutes. Store in a jar for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

This air fryer salmon recipe proves that healthy, elegant meals don’t have to be complicated. With just a few quality ingredients and proper technique, you can serve a dish that feels luxurious but takes less than 12 minutes.

Want more seafood mastery? Try my 100 Beginner's Air Fryer Rotisserie Recipes for easy crispy fish, chicken, and veggie meals — all under $5/serving.

What’s your favorite way to serve salmon? Share your creations with #RossiVossSeafood.

Happy Cooking!
Rossi Voss

About Rossi Voss: A cookbook author and culinary educator with over 20 years of professional experience, Rossi specializes in demystifying complex restaurant techniques for the home cook. After training in French and Italian kitchens, Rossi now focuses on teaching through bestselling cookbooks and cooking classes that emphasize both the science and soul of cooking.