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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 9 minutes
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Total Time: 14 minutes
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Course: Main Dish
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Cuisine: Modern American / Asian-Inspired
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Servings: 2 servings
Equipment
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1 Air Fryer
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Mixing bowls
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Measuring spoons and cups
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Silicone basting brush
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Instant-read digital meat thermometer
Ingredients
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2 salmon fillets (approx. 6 ounces each), patted completely dry
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3 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon fresh garlic, finely minced
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Salt, to taste (optional, keeping in mind the soy sauce)
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Garnish: Chopped fresh parsley or sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes to ensure it is nice and hot. Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels to guarantee a clean sear and optimal texture.
Step 2: Mix the Honey Garlic Glaze
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Reserve half of the mixture in a separate small dish to use for basting later.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon
Lightly brush the salmon fillets with a portion of the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated on the top and sides.
Step 4: Air Fryer Cooking
Place the salmon fillets into the air fryer basket skin-side down. Set the cooking intensity and time:
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Temperature: 390°F
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Cooking Time: 8 to 10 minutes total (depending on the thickness of your fillets)
Chef’s Tip: At the 5-minute mark, open the air fryer basket and brush the remaining reserved glaze over the top of each salmon fillet to build a rich, sticky crust. Close the basket and finish cooking for the remaining 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 5: Check Doneness and Serve
The salmon is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 135°F to 145°F in the thickest part, and the flesh flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fillets from the air fryer, let them rest for 2 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley or sesame seeds, and serve warm.
Recipe Notes & Variations
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Soy Alternatives: If you follow a soy-free diet, coconut aminos make a fantastic direct substitute.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha to the marinade if you enjoy a hint of heat.
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Clean-Up: Ensure you do not preheat your air fryer with loose parchment paper inside; if using a perforated liner, place it down only after the basket is hot and ready for the food.
Nutrition Information
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Serving Size: 1 fillet
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Calories: 380 kcal
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Protein: 34g
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Total Fat: 16g
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Saturated Fat: 2.5g
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Carbohydrates: 24g
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Sugars: 22g
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Sodium: 480mg