Easy Air Fryer Salmon with Avocado Salsa

- By Simple Home Bliss

If you’re trying to add more fish into your weekly meals, this air fryer salmon recipe is one of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to do it. It’s a family favorite in our house—even my teen boys love it!

The best part? This recipe uses frozen salmon fillets—no thawing required. You’ll start the salmon at a lower temperature so it gently defrosts, season once it’s softened (so the spices stick perfectly), then finish at a higher heat for lightly crispy edges and tender, flaky salmon. Topped with a fresh avocado salsa, it’s light, healthy, and ready in under 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Quick: Ready in under 20 minutes
✔️Healthy: Packed with protein, omega-3s, and good fats
✔️Easy: Starts with frozen salmon—no planning ahead
✔️Delicious: Slightly crispy on the outside, tender inside, with bright avocado salsa

True Story: I served this to my youngest teen boy, and he said “can you buy more salmon? I could eat this every day!” And so he did. For an ENTIRE WEEK!

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 frozen salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 Tbsp(s) olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Avocado Salsa

2 ripe avocados, diced
½ small red onion, finely chopped
1 Tbs olive oil
2 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Start with Frozen Salmon
- Preheat air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
- Place frozen salmon fillets, skin side down, in the basket.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes until partially thawed.
Season the Salmon
- Remove salmon from the basket.
- Combine olive oil, paprika, salt & pepper. brush onto salmon filets
Finish Cooking
- Increase air fryer temperature to 390°F (200°C).
- Return salmon to the basket and cook 8–10 minutes, or until salmon reaches 145°F internal temperature and flakes easily with a fork.
Make the Avocado Salsa
- While salmon cooks, mix avocado, red onion, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Serve
- Spoon avocado salsa generously over salmon fillets.
- Garnish with lemon or lime wedges and serve.

Notes & Tips

From Frozen: Starting at 360°F helps thaw salmon so seasoning sticks better. Finishing at 390°F gives slightly crispy edges and a tender center.
Thicker Fillets: Add 2–3 minutes to cooking time if your salmon is very thick.
Flavor Twist: Swap paprika for chili powder for a spicier flavor, add jalapeño and tomatoes for a more traditional guacamole style, or add corn and black beans to the avocado salsa for a more southwestern taste.
Pairings: Serve with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Try This Recipe with These Side Dishes:

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Arugula Salad with Parmesan & Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing