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Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe

Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe

Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe

This recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for busy days or any time you’re craving a healthy yet tasty meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard, depending on your preference)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a little smokiness)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Honey Mustard Glaze:
    • In a small bowl, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice (if using), garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk together until the ingredients are well mixed into a smooth glaze. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference.
  2. Prep the Salmon:
    • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the glaze stick better and ensures a crispier exterior.
    • Season both sides of the fillets with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Apply the Glaze:
    • Brush a generous amount of the honey mustard glaze onto the tops of the salmon fillets. Reserve a little of the glaze for basting while cooking if desired.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and gets a nice golden finish.
  5. Air Fry the Salmon:
    • Place the glazed salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down (if the skin is on). Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation.
    • Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. If you like your salmon more well-done, you can cook it for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  6. Serve and Garnish:
    • Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Optionally, drizzle the remaining glaze over the fillets or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra pop of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon:

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or when you’re short on time but want something flavorful and healthy.
  • Perfectly Cooked Salmon: The air fryer ensures your salmon is cooked perfectly every time with a crisp exterior and moist, tender interior. No more dry or overcooked fish!
  • Balanced Flavors: The combination of honey and Dijon mustard creates a balanced glaze that’s both sweet and tangy, perfectly complementing the rich flavor of the salmon without overpowering it.
  • Healthy and Delicious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal. The honey mustard glaze adds flavor without too many extra calories or fat.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon:

  • Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will make a big difference in taste. Wild-caught salmon, if available, is often a more flavorful option compared to farmed salmon.
  • Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, especially in the air fryer. Keep an eye on it toward the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking. The fillets should be firm but still moist when flaked with a fork.
  • Skin-on vs. Skinless: You can use either skin-on or skinless salmon fillets for this recipe. If you choose skin-on fillets, the skin will help keep the fish together during cooking. If you prefer skinless, the glaze will stick nicely to the fish and give it a nice crispy edge.
  • Add Extra Flavor: For even more flavor, try adding a sprinkle of lemon zest or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze. You could also top the salmon with toasted sesame seeds or chopped almonds for added texture.

Nutritional Information (per salmon fillet):

Based on one 6 oz salmon fillet with glaze:

  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Protein: 23g
  • Fat: 21g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
    • Fiber: 0g
    • Sugar: 12g (from honey)
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Potassium: 800mg
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

    Serving Suggestions:

    • Pair with Veggies: Serve this honey mustard salmon with roasted vegetables like asparagus, brussels sprouts, or carrots for a balanced and healthy meal.
    • Over Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the salmon over a bed of rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice) or quinoa to soak up the delicious glaze.
    • Fresh Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a fresh cucumber salad makes for a refreshing side dish.
    • Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: For a comforting meal, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes. The sweetness from the potatoes pairs wonderfully with the honey mustard glaze.