Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon

This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon is a fantastic solution for busy nights or when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home without the fuss. The recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with the rich, buttery salmon, all cooked quickly and easily in the air fryer for a moist and flaky result with crispy edges.

I first made this dish on a hectic weeknight and it instantly became a favorite in our home. Now it’s the salmon recipe I turn to whenever I want something that feels special but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Four salmon fillets: each about six ounces choose skin-on or skinless based on your preference for texture and presentation
• Two tablespoons honey: which adds lovely natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze during cooking
• Two tablespoons Dijon mustard: for a tangy depth that balances the honey’s sweetness
• One tablespoon olive oil: to enrich the glaze and assist with caramelization
• One teaspoon garlic powder: for subtle savory undertones that enhance the overall flavor
• Half a teaspoon paprika: bringing a mild smokiness and a vibrant color to the glaze
• Salt and pepper: to taste to elevate all the flavors
• Lemon wedges for serving: to add a bright refreshing finish and cut through the richness

When selecting salmon

Look for firm flesh with a fresh smell and vibrant color. Opt for wild-caught if possible for better flavor and nutritional benefits.

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 and well combined. This creates the flavorful coating that will caramelize beautifully in the air fryer.

Glaze the Salmon:

Use a brush or spoon to generously coat all sides of each salmon fillet with the glaze ensuring every nook is covered for maximum flavor impact.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius and preheat for two to three minutes. This step promotes even cooking and helps form a lightly crisp exterior on the salmon.

Arrange the Salmon:

Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket making sure not to overcrowd by leaving space between pieces to allow hot air to circulate properly.

Cook the Salmon:

Air fry for eight to ten minutes depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of one hundred forty-five degrees Fahrenheit or sixty-three degrees Celsius.

Serve Immediately:

Transfer the salmon to a plate and serve with fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the top for a zesty brightness that lifts the dish.

Save Pin

Lemon wedges are one of my favorite finishing touches. The fresh citrus cuts through the glossy honey mustard glaze creating a perfect balance that feels light and refreshing. Making this salmon was a memorable moment when I first introduced the glaze to my family and everyone was amazed it came together so quickly yet tasted so indulgent.

Storage tips

After cooking let the salmon cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap then seal in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months.

Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for two to three minutes to keep the flaky texture intact. Avoid using the microwave as it can dry out the salmon.

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap honey with maple syrup agave syrup or even brown sugar as alternatives to suit your taste or pantry availability. Dijon mustard can be replaced with spicy brown mustard or whole-grain mustard to vary the tang and texture. Olive oil may be substituted with avocado oil or another mild vegetable oil for subtle differences in flavor.

Serving suggestions

Pair this salmon with garlic butter green beans offering a crisp vegetable contrast or roasted sweet potatoes to echo sweetness in the glaze. Quinoa salad with fresh herbs adds a light wholesome side while steamed asparagus with lemon zest highlights the citrus notes. For a low-carb option try cauliflower rice which soaks up the glaze beautifully. Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and olive oil work wonderfully for comfort food lovers. A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette or sautéed spinach with a sprinkle of parmesan also complement the meal nicely.

Pro Tips

Brush on an additional layer of glaze halfway through cooking for extra caramelization and flavor depth

Adjust cooking time if fillets are thinner to avoid drying them out

For a crispier finish raise the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for the last minute or two of cooking

This recipe is forgiving but giving attention to small details like patting the salmon dry and spacing fillets properly in the air fryer basket makes all the difference. I learned the hard way that skipping preheating can make the salmon cook unevenly and impact that sought-after crispy edge.

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I use skinless salmon fillets?

Yes, skinless fillets work well, though skin-on helps keep the salmon moist and holds the shape during cooking.

→ How do I thaw frozen salmon safely?

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or seal in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.

→ What if I don't have an air fryer?

Baking in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes yields similar results, ensuring the salmon flakes easily.

→ How can I tell when the salmon is cooked?

Look for an opaque color and flaky texture. Using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

→ Why isn't my glaze sticking to the salmon?

Ensure the fillets are patted dry before glazing, and avoid overcrowding the basket to allow even air circulation.

→ Can I add a spicy twist to the glaze?

Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze brings a pleasant heat that complements the sweetness.