Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

This easy and quick Air Fryer Salmon recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort. The salmon fillets are topped with a flavorful crust made from brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and seasonings, resulting in a sweet and savory dish that’s cooked to perfection in the air fryer. This recipe is healthier than traditional frying, as it requires little to no oil while still delivering a tender and juicy result. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this air fryer salmon is sure to become a family favorite. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the perfect dish for anyone seeking a simple, flavorful, and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets

For the Crust:

• 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar (see Notes)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (divided)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a large plate and set them aside.
3. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until well mixed and set aside.
4. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush ½ tablespoon of Dijon mustard on top of each fillet. Then, generously coat the fillets with the brown sugar mixture, pressing it down gently to adhere.
5. Remove the basket from the air fryer and lightly spray it with a neutral cooking spray to prevent sticking.
6. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, ensuring they are not overlapping. Return the basket to the air fryer.
7. Cook the salmon for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness (see Notes for specific cook times and internal temperatures).
8. Once the salmon reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove the basket from the air fryer and transfer the fillets to a plate. Let them rest for 5 minutes.
9. Serve the salmon warm with your favorite side dishes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer salmon recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor! The brown sugar and Dijon mustard crust creates a perfectly balanced sweet and savory coating that caramelizes in the air fryer, giving you a delicious, restaurant-quality dish in less than 10 minutes. Plus, the air fryer ensures the salmon is tender and juicy without the need for extra oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

Tips

• Dry the Salmon: Patting the fillets dry before adding the mustard and crust helps the coating stick better.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure the fillets are not overlapping in the air fryer basket for even cooking.
• Check Internal Temperature: For perfectly cooked salmon, the internal temperature should reach 125°F for medium-rare or 145°F for well-done. Use a food thermometer to get the exact doneness you prefer.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sweeteners: Swap the brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a different sweet flavor.
• Mustard: If you prefer a milder flavor, try using yellow mustard instead of Dijon, or even whole grain mustard for some texture.
• Seasonings: Customize the crust with other spices like garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes for a little heat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Just make sure to check the internal temperature before serving.

Can I skip the sugar crust?
Yes, you can skip the brown sugar if you prefer a more savory salmon, or substitute it with a low-carb sweetener like Stevia for a healthier option.

Do I need to flip the salmon halfway through?
No, flipping is not necessary with the air fryer as it cooks evenly on both sides. Just make sure the fillets are spaced out to ensure proper air circulation.

Serving and Suggestions

This air fryer salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or quinoa. You can also serve it with a light dressing, such as lemon vinaigrette, or a creamy dill sauce for an added burst of flavor. For a complete meal, add a side of mashed potatoes or garlic bread!