Air fryer pesto salmon became my quick dinner fix after too many dry salmon attempts that just didn’t have enough flavor. I wanted something rich but still simple. My first try was overcooked and the pesto burned slightly. After testing this three ways, I discovered that adding the pesto halfway through cooking kept it fresh and vibrant. Then I cracked the code with the perfect timing, and now it comes out flaky, juicy, and packed with bold flavor every time.
Air Fryer Pesto Salmon – Flaky & Flavorful in 10 Minutes
Juicy, flaky salmon topped with vibrant pesto, cooked quickly in the air fryer for an easy and healthy meal.
Equipment
- Air Fryer (6-quart recommended)
- Tongs
- Air fryer parchment liner (optional)
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅓ cup basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Brush salmon lightly with olive oil.
- Season with salt and black pepper evenly.
- Place salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down.
- Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
- Open the air fryer and spread pesto evenly over each fillet.
- Continue cooking for another 3–5 minutes.
- Cook until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Air fryer models vary, so check at the 7-minute mark to avoid overcooking. Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if needed. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat at 320°F (160°C) for 3–4 minutes to keep the salmon moist. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto, and swap salmon for trout if preferred.
Nutrition
Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 34gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 420mgPotassium: 620mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 12IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 8mg
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CONCLUSION
I keep making this air fryer pesto salmon when I need something quick, healthy, and full of flavor. That flaky texture with the rich pesto topping makes it feel like a restaurant-style meal without any extra effort.