If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner, this Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon is a must-try. The air fryer gives the salmon a perfect, crispy texture while keeping it tender and moist inside. The honey garlic glaze adds a sweet and savory punch that makes this dish irresistible. Best of all, this recipe is incredibly easy and only takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that bring out the best in the salmon.
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Optional Add-Ons:
- Serve with roasted vegetables or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Pair with air-fried sweet potato fries for a crunchy, healthy side.
Preparing the Honey Garlic Salmon
This recipe is all about making the most of your air fryer’s capabilities to cook the salmon to perfection while keeping the glaze sticky and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the fillets to help them crisp up in the air fryer.
- Make the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, sriracha (if using), and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Air Fry the Salmon:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Cook for 7-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
- Glaze the Salmon:
- In the last minute of cooking, brush the honey garlic glaze over the salmon fillets. Return to the air fryer for another minute to let the glaze caramelize slightly.
For a lighter version, you could also pair the salmon with a fresh Italian garden salad for a refreshing balance of flavors.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides.
- Add Veggies: Serve the salmon with steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted asparagus for a healthy, balanced meal.
- Make it Spicy: Add more sriracha or red pepper flakes to the glaze if you enjoy a little heat.
- Serve it Over Grains: Pair the salmon with quinoa, brown rice, or even air-fried cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
For a fun twist, serve the salmon alongside air-fried garlic bread to soak up the extra glaze.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The air fryer ensures the salmon is perfectly cooked every time, making it a foolproof dish that even beginners can master. Plus, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor—packed with omega-3 fatty acids, it’s nutritious and satisfying.
If you love easy, delicious meals, check out our spicy Brazilian coconut chicken for another flavorful protein-packed dish.
FAQs About Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
2. How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
3. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake the salmon in the oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. Brush the glaze on during the last few minutes of baking.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.
3 thoughts on “Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon”