Salmon cooked in an air fryer brings a delicious, tender flavor to your table in no time. The maple glaze adds a sweet richness that makes every bite delightful. This dish is perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy weekend meal. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for busy families. It uses simple, everyday ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Preparation is minimal, so you can whip it up in just 13 minutes. The result is a tasty, satisfying meal everyone will enjoy. Plus, the air fryer gives it a lovely crispy exterior while keeping the salmon tender inside.
How to Make Maple Glazed Salmon
Making maple glazed salmon is straightforward. All you need to do is mix some flavorful ingredients, brush the salmon, and air fry it. The cooking process is fast and fuss-free, so you can enjoy your meal in no time.
What You Need
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Brush salmon fillets with olive oil and place them in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 5 minutes, then brush with the maple glaze.
- Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve immediately.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Salmon
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. A squeeze of lemon on top adds brightness and enhances the flavors, making it even more refreshing.
How to Store Maple Glazed Salmon
To keep leftovers fresh, store any uneaten salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked salmon for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through.
Recipe Tips
- Make sure to preheat the air fryer for even cooking.
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the glaze ingredients to your taste; you can add more maple syrup for sweetness.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Monitor the salmon closely as cooking times can vary based on the thickness of the fillets.
Variations & Swaps
- For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha to the maple glaze.
- Swap the salmon for tilapia or cod if you prefer a different flavor.
- Replace Dijon mustard with honey mustard for a sweeter touch.
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or thyme for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the salmon with the glaze and store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. This will allow the flavors to infuse more into the fish.
Can I freeze the cooked salmon?
Absolutely! Just let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
How do I reheat leftover salmon?
To reheat, place the salmon back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-4 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave it on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
What can I serve with maple glazed salmon?
This salmon pairs nicely with quinoa, rice, or steamed vegetables. A simple green salad is also a great option to lighten up the meal.
What are common mistakes to avoid?
Avoid cooking the salmon for too long, as it can become dry. Also, make sure not to skip preheating the air fryer—this helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
Maple Glazed Salmon
Ingredients
For the salmon
- 2 fillets salmon fillets (6 oz each) Use fresh salmon for the best flavor.
For the glaze
- 2 tbsp maple syrup Adjust for sweetness if desired.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce You can substitute with coconut aminos for gluten-free.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard Can be swapped with honey mustard for sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder Optional: Use fresh garlic for a stronger flavor.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil To brush on salmon before cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Brush salmon fillets with olive oil and place them in the air fryer basket.
Cooking
- Cook for 5 minutes, then brush with the maple glaze.
- Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve immediately.
