If you’re a fan of delicious yet simple cooking, then this Air Fryer Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe is a must-try. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this recipe brings out the best flavors in salmon by combining the rich taste of the fish with a sweet, tangy orange glaze. Using an air fryer, you can prepare this dish in a jiffy while preserving all the healthy nutrients that make salmon a favorite among seafood lovers.

Why Choose Air Frying?

Air frying is not just a cooking trend but an innovative way to prepare food thats both health-conscious and taste-savvy. By circulating hot air around the food, air frying mimics the texture and taste of deep-fried food without the need for excessive oil. This means you get the scrumptious, crispy layer you desire with substantially fewer calories. When it comes to cooking fish like salmon, the air fryer ensures its cooked evenly tender on the inside with a perfectly caramelized exterior.

The Joy of Orange Glazed Salmon

Oranges bring an exciting twist to the usual salmon preparation by offering a mix of sweetness and tanginess that elevates the overall flavor profile. The citrus elements from the glaze not only enhance the natural taste of the fish but also complement it beautifully, making each bite an explosion of taste and freshness akin to [roasted turkey](https://pumpkinandpeanutbutter.com/roast-turkey-with-mashed-potatoes-stuffing-and-cranberry-sauce/) during Thanksgiving.

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh orange slices and parsley for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Orange Glaze

Start by whisking together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, honey, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl until well combined. This glaze will serve to both marinate and coat the salmon, ensuring that each bite is packed with vibrant flavors. The addition of marmalade brings a delightful sweetness, balanced beautifully by the umami of soy sauce and the smokiness of the paprika.

2. Marinate the Salmon

Next, lightly season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the orange glaze over the salmon, flipping them to ensure they are well coated. Allow the salmon to maritate for at least 30 minutes, which gives the citrus and spice blend time to fully infuse into the fish. In essence, marination helps in not just flavoring the fish but also makes it tender and juicy.

3. Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

While the salmon marinates, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating is a crucial step that ensures your salmon begins to cook immediately, and this leads to an even cook and a crispy outer texture similar to the crunch of air-fried [butternut squash](https://pumpkinandpeanutbutter.com/butternut-squash-and-sage-soup/). Once the air fryer is ready, lightly spray or brush the insides of the basket with oil to prevent sticking.

4. Cooking the Salmon

Remove the salmon from the marinade, allowing any excess to drain off but reserving the glaze thats left in the bowl. Place the salmon fillets skin side down in the air fryer basket and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Halfway through cooking, brush the fillets with the remaining glaze to keep them moist and packed with flavor.

Finishing Touches and Serving

Once the salmon is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This rest allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the fillet, keeping it moist and delectable. Garnish with fresh orange slices and a sprinkle of parsley to add color and aroma. Serve your delightful salmon with a side of fresh [arugula salad](https://pumpkinandpeanutbutter.com/grilled-peach-and-arugula-salad/) or lemon-doused asparagus for an elegant, nutritious meal.

Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect Air Fryer Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe requires attention to detail and a knack for balancing flavors. For instance, using skin-on salmon fillets can help protect the delicate flesh from direct heat, minimizing the risk of overcooking. Moreover, giving the salmon adequate time to marinate ensures that the flavors penetrate deeply. Rotating the fillets during cooking can also promote even cooking, resulting in a pleasing texture reminiscent of traditional roasted salmon but with an added zing of citrus.

If youre looking to expand your culinary horizons further, salmon pairs wonderfully with a broad variety of sides. From classic mashed potatoes to [lemon risotto](https://pumpkinandpeanutbutter.com/asparagus-and-lemon-risotto/), the versatility of salmon makes it an excellent centerpiece for any meal. For more salmon inspiration, you can explore these delicious salmon recipes that offer the perfect harmony of taste and health benefits.

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