Honey Lemon Salmon Recipe | Air Fryer Honey Citrus Salmon

PUBLISHED July 31, 2025· MODIFIED July 31, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1688 words. · About 9 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re craving a perfectly balanced dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the zesty brightness of lemon, look no further! Discover how to make the easiest Air Fryer Honey Lemon Salmon. This recipe ensures a delightful harmony between a caramelized exterior and a tender, flaky interior, all while infusing your salmon with irresistible flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Amazing Air Fryer Recipe

Quick and Convenient. Ready in under 25 minutes with the efficiency of your air fryer.
Simple Preparation. Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Healthy Choice. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins, it’s a nutritious option for any meal.
Flavorful Delight. The perfect blend of sweet honey and tangy lemon elevates the natural flavors of the salmon.

With the convenience of the air fryer, you can achieve a gourmet-quality dish that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a sophisticated entrée, this Honey Lemon Salmon recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

What Does Honey Lemon Salmon Taste Like?

Honey Lemon Salmon is a beloved dish for many reasons. The combination of sweet honey and zesty lemon creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the rich, buttery flavor of salmon.

When cooked in an air fryer, the salmon achieves a perfect balance of caramelized edges and moist, flaky flesh.

This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various seasoning and serving options to suit your taste preferences.

Is Honey Lemon Salmon Healthy?

Absolutely, Honey Lemon Salmon can be a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet when prepared with mindful ingredient choices and portion control.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Salmon Fillets– Preferably wild-caught for the best flavor and texture.
Honey– Pure and preferably organic for a richer taste.
Lemon Juice– Freshly squeezed for maximum brightness.
Garlic– Minced or finely chopped.
Olive Oil– To help crisp the salmon in the air fryer.
Soy Sauce– For depth of flavor and a hint of umami.
Salt– To enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
Black Pepper– Freshly ground for optimal flavor.
Lemon Zest– For an extra punch of citrus.
Fresh Parsley– Chopped, for garnish and added freshness.

How To Make Honey Lemon Salmon

Prepare the Salmon Fillets. Start by selecting high-quality salmon fillets. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispier exterior. Season each fillet evenly with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Make the Honey Lemon Glaze. In a small mixing bowl, combine the honey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, soy sauce, and lemon zest. Stir the mixture until the honey is fully dissolved and all ingredients are well incorporated.
Marinate the Salmon. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the honey lemon glaze over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated. Let the salmon marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Preheat the Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 3-5 minutes.
Air Fry the Salmon. Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the marinated salmon fillets in a single layer in the basket, skin-side down if the skin is on. Cook the salmon at 400°F for 10 minutes. After the first 8 minutes, open the air fryer and brush the remaining honey lemon glaze over the fillets.
Check for Doneness. After 10 minutes, check the salmon for doneness. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If necessary, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to reach your desired level of doneness.
Garnish and Serve. Once cooked, transfer the salmon fillets to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the dish over the top for extra flavor. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the salmon for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips And Tricks

Creating the perfect Air Fryer Honey Lemon Salmon is simple, but a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level:

Choose the Right Salmon. Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it typically has a richer flavor and better texture compared to farmed varieties. Look for salmon with firm flesh and vibrant color, free from any off-putting odors.
Pat the Salmon Dry. Drying the salmon fillets thoroughly before seasoning helps achieve a crispy exterior. Moisture can cause steaming instead of crisping, so make sure to pat the fillets dry with paper towels.
Marinate for Optimal Flavor. Allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 10 minutes helps the flavors penetrate the fish. If you’re short on time, even a brief marination at room temperature can make a significant difference in taste.
Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer. Cook the salmon in a single layer with space between each fillet. Overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy results. If necessary, cook in batches to maintain quality.

Variations

If you love the classic Honey Lemon Salmon and want to try some creative twists, here are a few delicious variations to explore:

Spicy- Add a kick to your salmon by incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha into the honey lemon glaze. The combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors will tantalize your taste buds.
Herb-Infused– Enhance the freshness of your dish by adding finely chopped fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or rosemary to the glaze. These herbs complement the salmon beautifully and add an aromatic dimension to the dish.
Honey Lemon Garlic- Boost the savory profile by increasing the amount of garlic in the glaze or adding a tablespoon of minced garlic. This variation is perfect for garlic lovers who enjoy a more robust flavor.

What To Eat With Honey Lemon Salmon

Honey Lemon Salmon is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some delicious options to consider serving alongside your salmon:

Roasted Vegetables– A medley of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts complements the richness of the salmon. Toss the veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them until tender and slightly caramelized.
Quinoa or Rice Pilaf– Serve your salmon over a bed of quinoa or rice pilaf for a hearty and nutritious meal. The grains absorb the delicious glaze from the salmon, adding texture and substance to your plate.
Salad– A crisp, fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet and tangy salmon. Consider adding avocado slices for extra creaminess.

How Long Does It Last?

Cooked Honey Lemon Salmon can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.

To maintain the best texture and flavor, reheat the salmon gently in the air fryer or oven before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the salmon to become dry.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze Honey Lemon Salmon to extend its shelf life and enjoy it at a later time. Freezing preserves the flavors and texture of the salmon for 2-3 months, making it a convenient option for meal prep or spontaneous dinners.

To thaw, transfer the salmon from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.

Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 275°F for about 15 minutes.

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