Name: Salmon In The Air Fryer
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-487101H11M13S
Total time: PT-487101H11M13S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 (6‑ounce) skin‑on salmon fillets; Olive oil or spray; 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard; 1–2 Tbsp pure maple syrup or honey; 1 tsp reduced‑sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ¾ tsp salt; ¾ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp chili powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp ground ginger; ¼ tsp black pepper; Optional: lemon or lime wedges, fresh parsley or chives, avocado crema, or fruit salsa

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Short Description

This easy and flavorful air fryer salmon features a tangy-sweet mustard-maple glaze, crisp edges, and a tender, juicy interior. Cooked to perfection in minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight meal with optional toppings to dress it up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick cook time—ready in under 15 minutes
Deliciously balanced glaze of mustard, maple, and spices
No need to flip—cooks perfectly skin-side down
Versatile—great with salads, grains, or fresh salsas
Healthier cooking with minimal oil and mess

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on
Olive oil or olive oil spray

Wet Rub:

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1–2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (or honey)
1 teaspoon reduced sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¾ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Serving Ideas:

Lemon or lime wedges for squeezing
Fresh parsley or chives
Avocado crema
Corn salsa
Pineapple or mango salsa

Directions

Preheat Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F and preheat using the Air Fryer setting.
Prep the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Lightly brush or spray each with olive oil.
Make the Wet Rub
In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, maple syrup, soy sauce, vinegar, and all spices.
Apply the Rub
Brush the wet rub generously over the tops and sides of each salmon fillet. Optionally spritz with olive oil spray.
Air Fry
Lightly coat the air fryer basket with nonstick spray. Arrange fillets in a single layer, skin-side down, ensuring they don’t touch.
Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 135°F.
Serve
Serve immediately with lemon juice and any optional toppings.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7–10 minutes
Total Time: 12–15 minutes

Variations

Use honey instead of maple syrup for a floral sweetness
Swap Dijon mustard for whole grain or spicy brown mustard
Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat
Top with a drizzle of Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice for a creamy contrast
Serve on a salad or over quinoa for a light meal

Storage/Reheating

To Store: Refrigerate leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days
To Reheat: Warm gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or in a skillet over low heat
To Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating

FAQs

Can I Use Skinless Salmon?
Yes, though skin-on helps keep the fish moist. If using skinless, handle carefully to avoid sticking.

How Do I Know When Salmon Is Done?
Use a thermometer—135°F for slightly underdone (carryover heat finishes it) or 145°F for fully cooked.

Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes—thaw completely and pat dry before applying the rub.

Do I Need to Flip the Salmon?
No—cooking skin-side down ensures even heat and preserves the glaze.

What Can I Serve This With?
Great with rice, roasted vegetables, salad, or fruit salsa.

Can I Use This Rub for Other Proteins?
Absolutely—try it with chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes—just make sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I Make the Rub Ahead of Time?
Yes—store in the fridge up to 1 week. Stir before using.

Is It Safe to Eat Slightly Pink Salmon?
Yes—salmon is safe to eat at 135°F and may still look slightly pink and moist in the center.

Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Conclusion

This air fryer salmon recipe is a go-to for quick, flavorful, and healthy dinners. With its simple prep, bold seasoning, and crispy glaze, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your meal rotation. Top it your way and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.