Air Fryer Lemon Salmon and Broccoli is a simple, nutritious dinner you can make in minutes using your air fryer.
After a vacation full of indulgence, this light yet satisfying meal is perfect for getting back to healthier eating without sacrificing flavor.
This complete air fryer dinner is balanced and flavorful. You can reduce the butter if you prefer a lower-calorie option without losing the bright lemon and herb notes that make the dish so appealing.
How to make Air Fryer Lemon Salmon and Broccoli
This recipe serves two. Use two salmon fillets and one broccoli crown (the crown is smaller than a full bunch). The lemon-butter mixture doubles as both a cooking baste and a finishing sauce to brighten the salmon and coat the broccoli.
Begin by melting 6 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl or saucepan. If you want fewer calories, use less butter or substitute a light olive oil.
Stir in 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, then mix well. Reserve about half of this lemon-butter mixture to serve with the finished salmon.
Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket and brush them with some of the lemon-butter mixture. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes to start.
While the salmon begins to cook, break the broccoli crown into bite-sized florets. Toss the florets in the remaining lemon-butter mixture so each piece is lightly coated. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
Add the broccoli to the air fryer alongside the salmon and continue cooking at 400°F for 7 to 8 minutes, or until the broccoli is crisp-tender and has some charred edges. If you prefer milder charring, reduce the temperature to 370°F and increase the time slightly.
Air Fryer Lemon Salmon and Broccoli is the perfect, healthy meal for two
Remove the salmon and broccoli from the air fryer and spoon the reserved lemon-butter over the salmon just before serving. The butter adds shine and a burst of citrus-herb flavor that complements the salmon’s natural richness.
This dish is keto-friendly and works well with a variety of side options if you want to stretch it beyond two servings: roast additional vegetables, serve with a simple salad, or add a small portion of grains for non-keto diners.
Related air fryer recipe ideas
If you enjoy this salmon and broccoli combo, try other quick air fryer recipes that pair protein and vegetables for easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons melted butter (or less to reduce calories)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 salmon fillets
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 broccoli crown, cut into florets
Instructions
- Combine melted butter, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a bowl. Mix and reserve half for serving.
- Place salmon in the air fryer and brush with some lemon-butter. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Cook at 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Toss broccoli florets with the remaining lemon-butter, season, and add to the air fryer. Continue cooking at 400°F for 7–8 minutes until broccoli is crisp-tender with slightly charred edges. For less char, cook at 370°F a bit longer.
- Serve salmon and broccoli with the reserved lemon-butter spooned over the salmon.
Cookbook announcement
I share more easy air fryer recipes and quick meal ideas across my social channels. If you enjoy this recipe, try it with your preferred seasoning blends or swap the broccoli for other sturdy vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.