Name: Air Fryer Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ cup balsamic vinegar; ¼ tsp salt; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp honey; 4 salmon fillets (4-6 oz each), skin-on or skinless; Optional: fresh parsley or sesame seeds for garnish

This Air Fryer Balsamic Glazed Salmon is a quick, flavorful dinner option, combining tender salmon with a sweet-tangy glaze. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, delivering restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort using your air fryer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for seafood lovers and busy home cooks alike. The air fryer ensures perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior and flaky, moist interior in record time. The balsamic glaze, enriched with honey and garlic, adds a delightful sweet-savory depth that elevates the dish to gourmet status without requiring advanced cooking skills. It’s healthy, packed with omega-3s, and versatile enough to pair with veggies, rice, or salads. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and effortless preparation.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Preheat the Air Fryer: Ensure even cooking by preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding the salmon.
Don’t Overcrowd: Place salmon fillets in a single layer for optimal air circulation and crispy results.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Glaze Timing: Brush on the glaze halfway through cooking to prevent burning and enhance flavor absorption.
Line the Basket: Use parchment paper or a silicone liner for easy cleanup without sticking.

Yield: Serves 4

Air Fryer Balsamic Glazed Salmon

Quick, flavorful Air Fryer Balsamic Glazed Salmon with a sweet-tangy glaze, perfect for a healthy, delicious dinner.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes

Additional Time 3 minutes

Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
¼ tsp salt
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp honey
4 salmon fillets (4-6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
Optional: fresh parsley or sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes for even cooking.
Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy exterior.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Season the Salmon: Lightly brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down if applicable.
Cook the Salmon: Air fry at 400°F for 6 minutes, ensuring the fillets cook evenly.
Apply the Glaze: Carefully brush the balsamic glaze over the salmon and continue cooking for 5-6 more minutes.
Check Doneness: Ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F or flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or sesame seeds, and serve with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or rice.
Enjoy Immediately: Serve hot for the best flavor and texture, paired with a fresh salad or quinoa for a complete meal.

Notes

For best results, avoid overcooking to keep the salmon moist. If using frozen salmon, thaw completely beforehand to ensure even cooking. Adjust glaze sweetness by tweaking the honey amount to taste.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 589Total Fat 35gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 25gCholesterol 143mgSodium 509mgCarbohydrates 14gFiber 1gSugar 11gProtein 52g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture; frozen works too, just thaw completely.
Balsamic Vinegar: Choose a high-quality vinegar for a rich, tangy glaze; cheaper versions may lack depth.
Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the vinegar; substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a robust aroma; pre-minced can work in a pinch but is less vibrant.
Olive Oil: Helps the glaze adhere and promotes crispiness; extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruity note.
Soy Sauce: Enhances umami; use low-sodium to control saltiness or tamari for a gluten-free option.

Variations and Substitutions

For a twist, swap salmon for trout or cod, though cooking times may vary slightly. If balsamic vinegar isn’t your favorite, try a lemon-honey glaze for a brighter flavor. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze. Replace honey with agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option, or use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free, lower-sodium alternative. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to infuse the glaze with earthy notes, or sprinkle sesame seeds for added texture.

Storage Options

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain texture. For longer storage, freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the fish.