Mediterranean Style Air Fryer Salmon

This Mediterranean Style Air Fryer Salmon is a vibrant, healthy dish bursting with fresh flavors. Juicy salmon fillets are seasoned with aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and garlic, then air-fried to perfection. Paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, it’s a quick, delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean Style Air Fryer Salmon is a game-changer for seafood lovers and busy home cooks alike. The air fryer delivers perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners. The vibrant Mediterranean flavors—think oregano, thyme, garlic, and zesty lemon—infuse the salmon with a fresh, aromatic profile that feels both indulgent and healthy. Paired with a creamy, cooling tzatziki sauce, this dish is versatile enough to serve with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a crisp salad. It’s also packed with heart-healthy omega-3s, low in carbs, and adaptable to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table will be delighted.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Ensure your air fryer is preheated to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the salmon moist.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Place salmon fillets in a single layer with space between them for even cooking.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: Let the salmon sit in the marinade for 10-15 minutes for deeper flavor infusion.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line the air fryer basket with parchment for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Thicker fillets may need an extra 1-2 minutes, while thinner ones cook faster.

Yield: Serves 4

Mediterranean Style Air Fryer Salmon

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Juicy air fryer salmon with Mediterranean herbs and lemon, served with creamy tzatziki, perfect for a quick, healthy dinner.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 8 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 23 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless

For Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup grated cucumber, drained
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). This vibrant mix will infuse your salmon with Mediterranean magic!
2. Marinate the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides generously with the marinade. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes if time allows, letting those flavors soak in.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3 minutes. This ensures a crispy, golden exterior.
4. Arrange the Fillets: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly spray with cooking spray. Place the salmon fillets in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch for even cooking.
5. Air Fry the Salmon: Cook at 400°F for 7-8 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork or reaches 145°F internally. No need to flip!
6. Make the Tzatziki: While the salmon cooks, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Stir until creamy and set aside.
7. Check for Doneness: Gently test one fillet with a fork. If it flakes easily and looks opaque, it’s ready to shine!
8. Rest the Salmon: Let the fillets rest for 2 minutes to lock in juices before serving. This makes every bite tender and flavorful.
9. Serve with Flair: Plate the salmon with a generous dollop of tzatziki on the side. Pair with roasted veggies, quinoa, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
10. Enjoy the Compliments: Bask in the glow of serving a healthy, delicious dish that’s sure to impress family or guests!

Notes

• For best results, use wild-caught salmon for superior flavor and sustainability.
• Squeeze excess water from the grated cucumber for a thicker tzatziki.
• If your air fryer is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 593Total Fat 38gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 27gCholesterol 150mgSodium 396mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 56g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

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Ingredients Notes

The salmon fillets should be fresh or fully thawed, ideally about 6 ounces each for even cooking. Extra-virgin olive oil adds richness and helps the spices adhere, while fresh lemon juice and zest provide a bright, tangy flavor. Garlic cloves, minced fresh, offer a robust kick compared to powdered versions. Dried oregano and thyme are classic Mediterranean herbs, but fresh ones can elevate the dish further. For the tzatziki, use full-fat Greek yogurt for creaminess, and fresh dill and cucumber for authenticity. Kosher salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors, while optional red pepper flakes add a subtle heat.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable to suit various preferences or dietary restrictions. Swap salmon for cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi for a different fish option, adjusting cooking times as needed. For a dairy-free tzatziki, use coconut or almond-based yogurt. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs work well, though reduce the quantity by half. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky twist. For a low-sodium version, reduce salt and boost flavors with extra lemon or herbs. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the salmon at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or grill it for a charred flavor.

Storage Options

Store leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-4 minutes to avoid drying out. Tzatziki sauce keeps for up to 5 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze cooked salmon in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing tzatziki, as it may separate upon thawing.

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