Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon

This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon is perfect for busy evenings when you want something quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Its combination of sweet and tangy glaze with the rich texture of salmon creates a restaurant-quality dinner in less than 15 minutes.

I first made this recipe when I was short on time but craving something delicious. It quickly became a household favorite and a go-to for quick dinners that don’t feel rushed.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: 4 (6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless depending on your preference)
• Salmon quality: look for fresh, firm fillets with a vibrant pink color
• Honey: 2 tablespoons which provides the sweetness that balances the mustard
• Dijon mustard: 2 tablespoons for a tangy and slightly sharp flavor
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon to enrich the glaze and help caramelize it beautifully
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon to add savory depth without fresh garlic’s strong bite
• Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon gives a subtle smokiness and enhances color
• Salt and pepper: to taste, essential for bringing all flavors together
• Lemon wedges: for serving add a fresh, zesty finish to the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Glaze:

Whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze brings all the flavors together for that signature taste.

Glaze the Salmon:

Use a brush or a spoon to coat each salmon fillet generously with the glaze, ensuring all sides are covered evenly so that every bite is flavorful.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius and let it warm up for 2 to 3 minutes. Proper preheating guarantees even cooking and a lovely crisp texture.

Arrange the Salmon:

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Space them out enough to allow air to circulate freely, which prevents sogginess and promotes even cooking.

Cook the Salmon:

Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes. The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit or 63 degrees Celsius.

Serve Immediately:

Transfer the salmon to plates and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice from the wedges. This brightens the dish and balances the glaze’s sweetness.

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Storage Tips

Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation which can make the glaze soggy. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap then place in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard for a different flavor profile. Maple syrup or agave syrup make excellent alternatives to honey if you prefer a different sweetness. If you need to avoid garlic powder, try onion powder or fresh minced garlic in smaller quantities to adjust the savory notes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salmon with garlic butter green beans for a crisp, flavorful side. Roasted sweet potatoes complement the glaze with their natural sweetness. Try a fresh quinoa salad with herbs to balance richness with lightness. Steamed asparagus with lemon zest echoes the citrus finishing touch perfectly.

Cultural Context

Mustard and honey have been paired for centuries in European cuisine to create savory glazes that balance sharpness with sweetness. This glaze is a modern take on that classic flavor combination, now made effortless and fast thanks to the air fryer.

Pro Tips

• For extra caramelization, brush on a second layer of the glaze halfway through cooking
• Thinner fillets cook faster, so check them a minute or two earlier to avoid drying out
• To get crispier edges, raise the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for the last minute or two of cooking

This recipe helps you feel confident making salmon even on the busiest nights. The balance of flavors and the ease of air frying combine to deliver a meal that both nourishes and delights. No fancy equipment beyond your air fryer needed, and cleanup is super easy with optional parchment paper lining. Enjoy the rich taste and effortless cooking!

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can skinless salmon fillets be used?

Yes, skinless fillets work well and allow the glaze to coat evenly, though skin-on salmon tends to retain moisture better during cooking.

→ How do I thaw frozen salmon properly?

Place frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes until thawed.

→ Is it possible to bake instead of air frying?

Yes, bake salmon at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until it flakes easily and reaches the proper internal temperature.

→ How can I tell when the salmon is cooked?

Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque, vibrant appearance. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) ensures doneness.

→ What should I do if the glaze isn’t sticking?

Pat the salmon dry before applying the glaze and avoid overcrowding in the air fryer to ensure even coating and cooking.

→ Can I substitute honey with other sweeteners?

Maple syrup, agave syrup, or brown sugar can replace honey, adjusting to taste for similar sweetness and texture.