Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon: 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner

3 min read 05-01-2025

Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon: 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner

Meta Description: Craving a delicious and healthy weeknight dinner? This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon recipe is ready in just 20 minutes! Sweet, savory, and perfectly flaky salmon—the ideal meal for busy weeknights. Learn how to make this simple yet elegant dish with our easy-to-follow instructions and tips for success.

Introduction: Quick, Healthy, and Delicious Salmon

Weeknight dinners don't have to be boring! This air fryer honey mustard salmon recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a fraction of the time. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a healthy and delicious meal. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to flaky, flavorful salmon.

Ingredients You'll Need: A Pantry-Friendly Recipe

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight meal. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!

Salmon fillets: 4 (6-ounce) skin-on or skinless salmon fillets
Honey: 2 tablespoons (choose your favorite variety!)
Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon (for that tangy kick)
Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon (adds depth of flavor)
Apple cider vinegar: 1 teaspoon (balances the sweetness)
Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (for extra flavor and moisture)
Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional garnish)

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon: Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. The air fryer does most of the work!

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Drizzle with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Glaze and Cook

Brush the salmon fillets generously with the honey mustard glaze. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets and your air fryer model.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. This honey mustard salmon is fantastic on its own or served with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or quinoa.

Tips for Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Perfection

Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets will require slightly longer cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Skin-on or skinless? Both work well! Skin-on salmon will become crispy in the air fryer.
Get creative with sides: Serve with roasted asparagus, mashed sweet potatoes, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Leftovers are great! Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?

A: Yes, but you'll need to increase the cooking time. Thaw the salmon completely before cooking for the best results.

Q: What if my honey mustard glaze is too thick?

A: Add a teaspoon or two of water to thin it out.

Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven?

A: Yes, bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Weeknight Meal

This air fryer honey mustard salmon recipe is a winner! It's quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly flavorful. It's sure to become a weeknight staple in your home. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using #AirFryerHoneyMustardSalmon on social media!