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Air Fryer Pesto Salmon

This dish features salmon fillets cooked in an air fryer with a flavorful layer of pesto on top. The high heat crisps the skin while keeping the fish moist, with the pesto bubbling at the edges, creating an appealing texture and vibrant aroma. The result is a tender, flaky fish with a crispy exterior and a herby, fragrant topping.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Contemporary
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets salmon fillets preferably skin-on
  • 4 tablespoons pesto basil-forward, store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice
  • to taste salt and pepper flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • optional chili flakes for a spicy kick
  • optional chopped parsley or basil for garnish

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Paper towels
  • Brush or spoon for spreading pesto

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels until the skin feels crisp and no longer damp.
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes to ensure a crisp skin.
  3. Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the skin side of each fillet to promote crisping.
  4. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down into the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching for even cooking.
  5. Cook the salmon for 8-10 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the fish feels firm when pressed gently.
  6. While the salmon cooks, spread a generous layer of pesto evenly over the top of each fillet using a spoon or brush.
  7. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute to allow the pesto to settle and bubble slightly at the edges.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets to brighten the flavors, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired for a fresh, colorful touch.
  10. Serve immediately, enjoying the crispy skin, fragrant pesto, and tender, flaky salmon.

Notes

For extra crispiness, pat the salmon dry thoroughly and preheat the air fryer well. Applying pesto after cooking prevents sogginess, maintaining a crisp exterior with a flavorful topping.