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Juicy Honey Salmon in Air Fryer

Juicy Honey Salmon in Air Fryer

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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, european
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 1 –1.5 pounds salmon fillet
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • Freshly ground black pepper
Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Optional Garnishes
  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions
  • Lemon wedges

Method
 

Step 1: Bring Salmon Closer to Room Temperature
  1. Remove the salmon from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly. Cut in a cubes.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
  1. In a small bowl, combine:
  2. Soy sauce
  3. Honey
  4. Dijon mustard
  5. Olive oil
  6. Garlic
  7. Black pepper
  8. Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Marinate the Salmon
  1. Place the salmon in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top.
  2. Allow it to marinate for 20–30 minutes.The marinating time includes the time the salmon rests at room temperature after coming out of the refrigerator.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
Step 5: Cook
  1. Place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
  2. Cook for 8–10 minutes depending on thickness.
  3. For thicker fillets, you may need 10–12 minutes.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
  1. The salmon should flake easily with a fork while remaining moist in the center.
  2. For medium doneness, the internal temperature should reach about 125–130°F.
  3. For fully cooked salmon, cook to 145°F.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
  1. Brush with any remaining glaze and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
  2. Serve immediately.

Notes

Expert Tips for Juicy Salmon

Don’t Overcook It

The biggest mistake people make with salmon is cooking it too long. The fish continues cooking for a few minutes after it comes out of the air fryer.

Use Center-Cut Salmon

Thicker center-cut fillets cook more evenly and stay juicier.

Marinate First

Even 20 minutes of marinating makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

Leave the Skin On

The skin helps protect the fish from drying out and can easily be removed after cooking.

What to Serve with Honey Soy Salmon

This salmon pairs perfectly with:
  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Brown rice
  • Roasted broccoli
  • Air fryer asparagus
  • Green beans
  • Asian cucumber salad
  • Quinoa
  • Garlic mashed potatoes

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. Thaw completely before marinating for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this without honey?

You can substitute maple syrup or brown sugar.

How do I know when salmon is done?

The fish should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature between 125°F and 145°F depending on your preferred doneness.

What is the best temperature for air fryer salmon?

380°F gives the best balance of caramelization and moisture.

Tried this recipe?

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