Air Fryer Salmon with Maple Soy

This dish combines tender, flaky salmon with a sweet and savory maple-soy glaze, cooked quickly in the air fryer for a perfectly caramelized finish. It’s healthy, flavorful, and takes under 20 minutes from start to finish. Serves 2–4, depending on fillet size.

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Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 2–4 salmon fillets (6–8 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon olive oil or cooking spray

For the Maple Soy Glaze:

• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional for extra depth)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)

Optional Garnishes:

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions
• Lemon or lime wedges

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Maple Soy Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger (if using), and red pepper flakes.
2. Set aside about 1 tablespoon of the glaze for drizzling at the end.

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2. Prepare the Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Lightly brush or spray olive oil on the salmon.
3. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper on both sides.

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3. Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

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4. Air Fry the Salmon

1. Brush or drizzle the fillets with the maple-soy glaze, reserving some for later.
2. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket skin-side down if the skin is on. Make sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded.
3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness.
   • Thicker fillets may need closer to 12 minutes.
   • Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 125–130°F (51–54°C) for medium.
4. Optional: For extra caramelization, brush additional glaze during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

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5. Serve

1. Carefully transfer the salmon to a serving plate.
2. Drizzle with the reserved glaze.
3. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and lemon or lime wedges.
4. Serve immediately alongside steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon with Maple Soy

• Do not overcook: Air fryer salmon cooks quickly. Keep an eye on the fillets to maintain tender, juicy flesh.
• Pat salmon dry: Removing excess moisture ensures the glaze sticks and caramelizes beautifully.
• Skin-on fillets: Cooking skin-side down helps protect the delicate flesh and makes it easier to handle.
• Glaze variations: Add a teaspoon of hoisin sauce, mirin, or a dash of sriracha to customize flavor.
• Storage: Leftover glazed salmon can be stored in the fridge for 1–2 days; reheat gently in the air fryer or oven to maintain moisture.