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Crispy Cajun Air Fryer Salmon Recipe Easy Spiced Crust Perfection

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A quick and easy air fryer salmon recipe featuring a bold Cajun spice blend that creates a crispy crust and tender, flavorful fish. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170 grams each), fresh or thawed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend evenly.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Brush each fillet lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil on all sides.
  3. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning generously over each fillet, pressing gently so it sticks, especially on the skin side.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook for 8-10 minutes depending on thickness until the skin is crispy and the flesh is opaque but moist.
  6. Check doneness with a kitchen thermometer aiming for 125°F (52°C) for medium doneness. Add 1-2 minutes if more cooked is preferred, but avoid drying out.
  7. Remove salmon from the air fryer and let rest for 3 minutes to redistribute juices.
  8. Serve with lemon wedges and optionally sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or green onions.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Preheat air fryer for best results. Rotate basket halfway if your air fryer cooks unevenly. Avoid opening basket frequently to maintain temperature. Use skin-on fillets for best texture. Adjust cayenne pepper to control heat level. Rest salmon after cooking to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun salmon, air fryer salmon, crispy salmon, quick salmon recipe, healthy salmon, spicy salmon, easy dinner, gluten-free salmon

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