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Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe with Easy Asparagus Side

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A quick and easy air fryer recipe featuring crispy honey garlic glazed salmon with tender asparagus, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each), skin on for extra crispness
  • 3 tablespoons honey (local wildflower honey recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb / 450 g), trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil (if using). Set aside.
  2. Trim the asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus by bending each spear until it naturally breaks. Toss them in a bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest if you like. Set aside.
  3. Season the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly season with salt and pepper on both sides.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Apply the glaze: Using a brush or spoon, coat the salmon fillets generously with the honey garlic glaze, covering the top and sides.
  6. Arrange in the basket: Place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket, spacing the fillets so they aren’t touching. Add the asparagus spears alongside in a single layer.
  7. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, depending on thickness. Around the 6-minute mark, open the basket carefully and baste the salmon again with some glaze. Flip asparagus if needed.
  8. Check for doneness: Salmon should flake easily with a fork and have crisp, golden skin. Air fry an additional 1-2 minutes if needed.
  9. Serve immediately: Plate salmon and asparagus with any leftover glaze drizzled on top. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before seasoning for crisp skin. Preheat air fryer for best results. Apply glaze twice to build flavor and prevent burning. Avoid overcrowding the basket; cook in batches if needed. Use a thermometer for perfect doneness (125°F for medium-rare, 145°F for fully cooked). Let salmon rest a few minutes before serving. Leftovers reheat well in air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, honey garlic salmon, crispy salmon, asparagus side, quick dinner, healthy salmon recipe, easy air fryer meals

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/crispy-air-fryer-honey-garlic-salmon-recipe-with-easy-asparagus-side/