Name: Air Fryer Parmesan Pesto Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 ounces salmon filets; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; nonstick cooking spray; 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese; 6 cloves garlic (whole); 2 tablespoons canola oil; 1 1/2 cups fresh basil (including stems); 3 tablespoons pine nuts; 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/3 cup olive oil; 2 teaspoons black truffle oil (or black truffle flavored olive oil); 1 lemon (juiced)

Print Recipe·4 from 8 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful, quick, and flavorful dish, this Air Fryer Parmesan Pesto Salmon Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the rich, nutty aroma of pesto with the crispy, cheesy crust of Parmesan, and perfectly cooked salmon, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dinner right in your kitchen with minimal fuss. The air fryer makes the salmon unbelievably tender on the inside while giving it a lovely golden finish on the outside, making every bite a total joy. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply love easy, impressive weeknight meals, this dish will quickly become a beloved staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a large piece of orange salmon placed on a black tray at the top right, set on a white marbled surface. Below and around it are small white bowls and wooden containers filled with various ingredients: pale yellow pine nuts in a white bowl at the center, light yellow olive oil in a white bowl to the right, white and beige powders mixed in a small white bowl above the pine nuts, garlic cloves in a white bowl at bottom left, light yellow grated cheese in a wooden bowl at bottom right, and a round wooden bowl with a white crumbly cheese near the bottom left. Fresh green basil leaves are near the center bottom, and a whole bright yellow lemon is placed next to the salmon on the right side. The whole setting is bright with soft natural light, and everything is neatly arranged. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting ready to whip up this Air Fryer Parmesan Pesto Salmon Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet packed with flavor. Each component adds its own special touch—fresh basil for vibrancy, roasted garlic for depth, and a mix of Parmesan cheeses for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Salmon filets (4 ounces each): Choose fresh, thick filets for the best texture and flavor.
Sea salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the natural taste of the salmon without overpowering it.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle garlic kick to season the fish.
Parmesan cheese, shredded (1 cup): Perfect for creating a crispy, cheesy topping.
Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures your salmon won’t stick to the air fryer basket.
Whole garlic cloves (6 cloves): Roasting these mellows their flavor and adds richness to the pesto.
Canola oil (2 tablespoons): Ideal for roasting garlic evenly in the skillet.
Fresh basil (1 1/2 cups): Delivers a burst of herbal freshness in the pesto.
Pine nuts (3 tablespoons): Give the pesto a creamy, nutty depth.
Parmesan cheese, grated (1/3 cup): Blends into the pesto for that essential cheesy undertone.
Sea salt (1 teaspoon): Balances and brightens the pesto flavors.
Ground black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle spicy note to the sauce.
Olive oil (1/3 cup): Creates a smooth, glossy pesto consistency.
Black truffle oil (2 teaspoons, optional): Introduces a luxurious, earthy twist.
Lemon juice (from 1 lemon): Adds brightness and cuts through the richness.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Pesto Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by heating your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and adding the canola oil. Toss in the whole garlic cloves and roast them for about 5 minutes, shaking the skillet often to ensure even cooking. This roasting step softens the garlic and transforms it into a sweet, mellow flavor powerhouse that will elevate your pesto to the next level.

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto

Next, it’s time to build the pesto magic. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil (including the stems for extra flavor), roasted garlic cloves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan, sea salt, and black pepper. Pulse for 15 seconds to roughly chop and mix these ingredients. Then, add the olive oil, black truffle oil if using, and fresh lemon juice, pulsing for another 15 seconds until the mixture is creamy yet still slightly textured. Pour your vibrant pesto into a mason jar and chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to use. This recipe makes about 8 ounces of pesto—perfect for generous topping and leftovers.

Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon Filets

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F for 5 minutes to get it nice and hot. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Season each salmon filet evenly with sea salt and garlic powder. Place the salmon carefully inside the air fryer basket, skin-side down if your filets have skin, and cook for 12 minutes. There’s no need to flip them; the air fryer will handle even cooking beautifully.

Step 4: Add Pesto and Parmesan Topping

Once the first air fry cycle is done, spread about 1 tablespoon of the fresh pesto over each filet. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Parmesan on top to create a lovely crust. Pop the salmon back into the air fryer for another 3 minutes, which will melt the cheese and slightly brown it. Your salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, tender on the inside with a crisp, cheesy finish outside.

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Pesto Salmon Recipe

Inside a black air fryer basket with a grid bottom, there are five pieces of raw salmon. Each piece is orange with white lines running through it and is lightly sprinkled with salt. The pieces are laid flat, spaced apart in two rows, with two in the top row, two in the middle, and one in the right middle. Around the basket is a white marbled surface with small white bowls holding ground black pepper and salt, pine nuts, and a wooden bowl filled with grated cheese. A bunch of fresh green basil leaves is placed near the bowls. A woman's hand is not visible but implied to be close by as a lemon rests at the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a few pine nuts on top can elevate the visual appeal and add just a touch more texture. A wedge of lemon on the side brightens the flavors and invites your guests to add a zesty squeeze if they desire.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs splendidly with simple steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli. A light, fluffy rice pilaf or herbed quinoa also complements the pesto flavors perfectly without overpowering them. If you’re looking for something heartier, roasted baby potatoes tossed in garlic and rosemary are a fantastic choice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salmon over a bed of spaghetti tossed with extra pesto for a complete meal. Alternatively, slice the salmon and use it to top a fresh green salad with cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts, drizzled with your homemade pesto dressing. The combination of colors and textures will impress at any dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salmon and extra pesto separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the crust from becoming soggy. The salmon will stay good for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked salmon wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Freeze leftover pesto in small portions in an ice cube tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for convenient use later.

Reheating

To reheat your salmon without losing its crispy topping, warm it gently in an air fryer at 350°F for about 4-5 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy. For pesto, thaw in the fridge and stir well before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While salmon is perfect for this Air Fryer Parmesan Pesto Salmon Recipe, you can substitute with trout, cod, or halibut fillets. Just adjust cooking times based on the thickness of your chosen fish.

Is there a substitute for pine nuts in the pesto?

If pine nuts are hard to find or expensive, try walnuts or almonds instead. They provide similar nutty richness and blend well with basil and Parmesan.

Can I prepare the pesto ahead of time?

Yes, the pesto keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week. It also freezes well in small portions, making it perfect for quick meals down the road.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake the salmon instead?

You can bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, then add pesto and Parmesan and broil for 3-4 minutes to create that golden crust.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The best way is to use a kitchen thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F. The flesh should flake easily but still be moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Air Fryer Parmesan Pesto Salmon Recipe that makes it a little gem in the world of quick, healthy dinners. From the fragrant, homemade pesto to the perfectly air-fried salmon with cheesy goodness, every element sings in harmony. I encourage you to try it for your next meal—you’re going to love how effortless it is to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to enjoy it with you!