If you are craving a flavorful and effortlessly elegant dinner, then this Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine perfectly cooked salmon fillets, tender on the inside with a slightly caramelized honey mustard glaze that offers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. It’s a dish that not only looks impressive but is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself falling in love with salmon all over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon Recipe lies in its simplicity, relying on a handful of ingredients that bring out the very best in each other. Every component works together to create a glaze bursting with flavor while keeping the salmon moist and beautifully cooked. Gather these essentials to get started on a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Salmon fillets (4, 6 oz each): Choose fresh, skin-on salmon for maximum flavor and moisture retention.
- Honey (2 tbsp): Adds a natural sweetness that balances the tangy mustard perfectly.
- Dijon mustard (2 tbsp): Brings a sharp, creamy punch that cuts through the richness of the fish.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps create a silky glaze and keeps the fish tender during cooking.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Infuses subtle savory depth without overpowering the glaze.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp): Adds a smoky warmth and vibrant color to the glaze.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): A gentle kick that rounds out the seasoning.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the glaze, giving it a fresh, zesty lift.
- Soy sauce (1 tsp, optional): For those who like a deeper, umami twist in their glaze.
- Chopped parsley: A fresh and colorful garnish to finish your dish beautifully.
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Preheating ensures your salmon cooks evenly, locking in moisture while giving the glaze a chance to caramelize just right. This is an important step for that perfect texture you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Prepare the Glaze
Whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, fresh lemon juice, and soy sauce in a small bowl. This simple but vibrant glaze will coat your salmon with a fantastic layer of flavor that becomes irresistibly sticky and delicious once cooked.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon Fillets
Pat each salmon fillet dry with a paper towel to help the glaze adhere better. Then, generously brush the glaze over the tops and sides of each piece. This step is where the magic happens, as the glaze will form a beautiful sheen and flavor-packed crust.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Lightly grease the air fryer basket before placing the salmon fillets skin-side down, making sure they don’t touch to allow proper air circulation. Cook the salmon for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness, until it flakes easily with a fork. You’ll know it’s done when the glaze looks slightly caramelized and the fish feels tender and juicy.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once cooked, transfer your salmon to plates, garnish with chopped parsley, and get ready to enjoy. Serving immediately ensures you experience the salmon at its juiciest and the glaze at its most flavorful.
How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a mild peppery freshness that perfectly complements the bold glaze. You can also add lemon wedges on the side for an optional extra zing which brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light quinoa salad. The crispness of air-fried vegetables or a simple green salad also balances the rich, sweet-tangy flavor of the glaze wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve your salmon atop a bed of herbed couscous or drizzle a little extra honey mustard glaze on the plate for an elegant touch. You can also serve it alongside a colorful medley of steamed veggies or even over a warm grain bowl for a wholesome and beautiful presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to preserve the texture and flavor as much as possible.
Freezing
While fresh is always best for salmon, you can freeze leftover cooked salmon by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 to 4 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispness of the glaze and keeps the fish juicy without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before applying the glaze for best results. This helps the glaze stick and ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
Is soy sauce necessary in the glaze?
The soy sauce is optional and adds a nice umami depth, but the glaze is delicious even without it. Feel free to omit it if you prefer a simpler flavor or need a soy-free option.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The glaze should be slightly caramelized but not burnt.
Can I double this recipe for more servings?
Absolutely! Just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air flow for even cooking. You might need to cook the salmon in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute with whole grain mustard or yellow mustard, though the flavor will be a bit different. Dijon’s tangy creaminess really makes this glaze stand out.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon Recipe truly shines as a quick, flavorful, and healthful meal that anyone can whip up with ease. Whether for an everyday dinner or a special occasion, the fantastic combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard coated on tender salmon is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it, savor those mouthwatering flavors, and make it a regular favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender, flaky salmon with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. Ready in just 15 minutes, this healthy meal is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with fresh sides.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
Honey Mustard Glaze
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp soy sauce (optional, for added depth of flavor)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and soy sauce if using. This mixture will create a flavorful, sticky glaze for the salmon.
- Coat the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Generously brush the honey mustard glaze over the top and sides of each fillet, ensuring an even coating.
- Air Fry: Lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the basket, making sure they do not touch to allow proper air circulation. Cook for 8-10 minutes depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has a caramelized glaze.
- Serve: Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately alongside your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
- For best results, use fresh salmon rather than frozen.
- The soy sauce in the glaze is optional but adds a nice umami depth to the flavor.
- If you prefer crispier skin, pat the skin dry before cooking and ensure the air fryer is well preheated.
- Pair this salmon with light sides like quinoa, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.
