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Air fryer roasted salmon fillet garnished with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges on a serving plate

Air Fryer Salmon Fillet with Sumac

This air fryer roasted salmon fillet is a simple yet flavorful dish made with a whole deboned salmon fillet, seasoned generously with sumac, salt, and black pepper. Letting the salmon rest after salting enhances its texture, while air frying keeps it tender and juicy. Served with tahini sauce, homemade hot sauce, steamed rice, and a fresh green salad, this recipe makes an easy, satisfying meal with bold but balanced flavors.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Tweezers or fish bone pliers
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Pastry brush or spoon
  • Kitchen paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 kg about 2.2 lb salmon fillet, deboned, in one piece
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp light soy
  • 1 tbsp sumac
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1-2 tsp olive oil
  • cilantro or other herbs for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare and salt the salmon

  • Check the salmon fillet carefully and remove any remaining pin bones using tweezers.
  • Pat dry with kitchen paper.
  • Season evenly with salt and soy, and let the salmon rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps improve texture and seasoning.

Season

  • After resting, season the salmon with sumac and black pepper and rub gently to coat.
  • Drizzle a few drops of olive oil over the top and gently spread it using a brush or spoon.

Air fry

  • Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (360°F).
  • Place the whole salmon fillet skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure it fits comfortably.
  • Air fry for 10–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily.

Rest and serve

  • Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
  • Slice and serve warm with lemon wedges and cilantro sprigs.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this air-fried salmon fillet with steamed rice, a fresh mixed green salad, and flavorful sauces like tahini sauce and homemade hot sauce—the citrusy sumac pairs especially well with creamy and spicy accompaniments.

Notes / Tips

Letting the salmon rest after adding salt and soy helps it stay juicy and well-seasoned.
Sumac adds a bright, lemony note without acidity.
Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillet and your air fryer model.
Avoid overcooking; salmon should remain moist in the center.
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