Zesty Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon

Air fryer lemon garlic salmon is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the savory flavors of garlic with the refreshing zest of lemon. Perfectly cooked in an air fryer, this salmon is tender, juicy, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a simple recipe, explore its nutritional benefits, and suggest some perfect pairings to complement this delightful dish.

Ingredients

To serve 4 people, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for garnish

Cooking Method

1. 
   

   Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a marinade.

2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each fillet is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

4. 

   Cook the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the air fryer, sprinkle with fresh dill if using, and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Value

Salmon is renowned for its high nutritional value, packed with omega-3 fatty acids which are beneficial for heart health. It’s also a great source of protein, vitamins B12, D, and selenium, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious meal.

A serving of this lemon garlic salmon provides approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 1g

Best Side Dishes and Pairings

To enhance your air fryer lemon garlic salmon, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes and drinks:

Side Dishes and Salads:

• Roasted Asparagus: Complement the salmon’s flavors with the earthy, savory taste of roasted asparagus. Simply toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender.
• Quinoa Salad: A vibrant quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese adds both texture and color to your meal.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy and tangy flavors of a Caesar salad pair wonderfully with the zesty salmon.

Drinks:

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the lemony notes of the salmon.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a refreshing, non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water infused with lemon slices.

Air fryer lemon garlic salmon is not only simple to prepare, but also a delicious way to incorporate healthy fish into your diet. Whether you’re hosting friends or cooking for your family, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and succulent texture. Enjoy your culinary journey!