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Air Fryer Dry Rub Salmon

Salmon coated in a sweet-smoky spice rub that forms a caramelised crust in the air fryer without drying the fish. Let the rub sit 10 to 15 minutes first.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon about 6 oz each, skin-on
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar or Swerve Brown
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme or dill
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • chili powder a pinch, optional
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Small bowl
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
  2. Pat the fillets dry, rub with the oil, then massage the spice mix over all sides. Rest 10 to 15 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C).
  4. Cook skin-side down 8 to 10 minutes, until the crust is set and the fish flakes. Rest 2 minutes.

Notes

Watch thin fillets: the sugar in the rub caramelises fast and can scorch. Pull thin pieces a minute early.
Make ahead: the rubbed fillets hold up to 24 hours in the fridge.