Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Air Fryer Pomegranate-Glazed Salmon

Air Fryer Pomegranate-Glazed Salmon

This Air Fryer Pomegranate-Glazed Salmon recipe offers a quick and flavorful dinner featuring tender salmon fillets coated in a vibrant, tangy-sweet pomegranate glaze. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a healthy, antioxidant-rich meal that combines the ease of air frying with bold, balanced flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets, skin-on (fresh or thawed)

Glaze

  • 3 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes & Variations

  • Fresh parsley, dill, or chives for garnish
  • Smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for spice
  • Rosemary or thyme for herb infusion
  • Agave nectar as vegan sweetener alternative
  • Orange juice in place of lemon juice for citrus twist
  • Toasted pistachios or sliced almonds for crunch

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth and glossy.
  2. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
  3. Apply the Glaze: Brush the prepared pomegranate glaze generously over the salmon fillets, ensuring even coverage; reserve a small amount of glaze for basting if desired.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3 to 5 minutes to promote even cooking and a crisp outer layer.
  5. Air Fry the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overlapping, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the salmon flakes easily and the glaze caramelizes.
  6. Optional Basting: Halfway through cooking, brush the salmon again with the reserved glaze for a more intense, glossy finish.
  7. Rest and Garnish: Let the cooked salmon rest for 2 minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.

Notes

  • Choose salmon fillets that are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and crispness.
  • Always pat salmon dry before glazing to help the glaze adhere and prevent steaming.
  • Check doneness starting at 8 minutes since air fryer models may vary.
  • Use a silicone brush to apply the glaze gently without tearing the delicate salmon.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (approx. 6 oz)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Salmon, Air Fryer, Pomegranate Glaze, Healthy Dinner, Quick Recipe, Omega-3, Gluten Free