Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Salmon Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I still remember the first time I tried salmon. I was about ten. My aunt grilled it with lemon and herbs and served it with buttery mashed potatoes. It was love at first bite.

Years later, after trying salmon dozens of ways-from pan-seared to baked-I discovered Jamie Oliver’s version made in an air fryer. Game. Changer.

If you’re like me and want healthy, quick meals that still feel a little gourmet, you’re in for a treat.

Let’s dive into Jamie’s air fryer salmon recipe. It’s bold, bright, simple-and packed with flavor.

Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

The first time I saw Jamie cook salmon on TV, I was captivated. He makes food feel so human. So unpretentious.

What I love about this particular air fryer salmon is that it’s:

• Quick – ready in under 15 minutes
• Healthy – packed with omega-3s and lean protein
• Simple – no obscure ingredients or chef-level skills needed
• Flavorful – thanks to a herby, zesty rub Jamie does so well

His recipe brings out the natural richness of the fish without overwhelming it. It’s a beautiful balance of fresh herbs, citrus, and just enough spice.

Ingredients Needed

When I first made this, I had almost everything on hand already. That’s the beauty of Jamie’s style.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 salmon fillets – skin on, about 150g each
• 1 clove of garlic – finely minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• A handful of fresh parsley – finely chopped
• Sea salt and cracked black pepper – to taste
• Optional: chili flakes for a little kick

Feel free to swap parsley for dill or basil if that’s what’s in your fridge. Jamie always encourages cooking with confidence, not rules.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon

The first time I cooked salmon in an air fryer, I was skeptical. Would it be dry? Rubbery? Nope. It was juicy, flaky, and crisp in all the right places.

Here’s how you make it:

1. Preheat The Air Fryer

   • 200°C (about 390°F) for 3 minutes

2. Mix Your Marinade

   • In a small bowl, combine garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, mustard, olive oil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper

3. Marinate The Salmon

   • Rub the mixture over both sides of the fillets
   • Let them sit for 10 minutes if you have time

4. Place In The Air Fryer

   • Skin side down
   • Leave space between the fillets

5. Cook

   • 8-10 minutes depending on thickness
   • No flipping needed
   • Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork

6. Serve

   • Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon

And that’s it. Fast. Clean. Delicious.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

I get nerdy about ingredients, so I had to dive into why these flavors work so well.

Let’s break it down:

• Lemon juice: Not just for flavor-its acid helps break down proteins, making the salmon more tender
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the air fryer brown the outside beautifully
• Garlic: Brings a warm depth that balances the brightness of the lemon
• Parsley: Refreshing and slightly bitter-it lifts the whole dish
• Dijon mustard: This is the magic. It adds sharpness and binds the marinade together

These ingredients don’t just taste good-they work together chemically to boost texture and aroma.

Expert Tips

After making this recipe more times than I can count, here are some tips I swear by:

• Use Skin-on Salmon

  • It keeps the fish moist and crisps up beautifully in the air fryer

• Don’t Overcrowd The Basket

  • Air needs to circulate for even cooking

• Check Doneness Early

  • Especially with thinner fillets
  • Air fryers vary, so peek at 7 minutes

• Let It Rest

  • Just a minute or two before serving
  • This helps the juices settle inside

• Serve With Contrast

  • A creamy yogurt sauce
  • Or a peppery arugula salad

Recipe Variations

Once I mastered the classic, I started playing around. You should too.

Here are some of my favorite twists:

• Asian-style

  • Swap lemon for lime
  • Add grated ginger and a splash of soy sauce

• Maple-glazed

  • Replace mustard with a tablespoon of maple syrup
  • Add smoked paprika

• Spicy Cajun

  • Use Cajun seasoning instead of parsley and mustard
  • Add chili powder for heat

• Mediterranean

  • Add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano

Every version tastes like something new but keeps that Jamie Oliver ease.

Final Words

I’ve made this air fryer salmon on rushed weeknights and fancy date nights. It’s my go-to for when I want something clean, comforting, and satisfying.

Jamie Oliver has this way of reminding us that food should be joyful, not stressful. His air fryer salmon captures that philosophy perfectly.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about making something real.

FAQs

How Do I Cook Salmon In An Air Fryer Like Jamie Oliver?

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C, season the salmon with olive oil, lemon, and herbs, then cook for 10-12 minutes. Check for doneness with a fork.

What’s The Best Temperature For Cooking Salmon In An Air Fryer?

180°C is ideal for a crispy outside and tender inside.

Do I Need To Flip The Salmon In The Air Fryer?

No, you don’t need to flip it. The air circulates evenly to cook it perfectly.

Can I Use Frozen Salmon For This Recipe?

Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 3-5 minutes.

How Do I Prevent The Salmon From Sticking To The Air Fryer Basket?

Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil or use parchment paper to avoid sticking.

What Seasonings Work Best For Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon?

Lemon, garlic, fresh herbs like thyme or dill, and a pinch of sea salt work wonders.

Can I Cook Multiple Pieces Of Salmon At Once?

Yes, but make sure there’s space between each piece for even cooking.

How Do I Know When The Salmon Is Done?

It should easily flake with a fork and have an internal temperature of 60°C.

Is This Recipe Suitable For Beginners?

Definitely! It’s simple and quick, with minimal ingredients and steps.

Can I Make This Recipe Without An Air Fryer?

Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 200°C for 12-15 minutes.