Easy Air Fryer Pesto Salmon
- Brittany Bartel
- Nov 23, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 14, 2024
A Gourmet Dinner, Simplified
Imagine this: you’ve had another long day, or you're busy prepping your house for house guests for the holiday, and dinner needs to happen—fast. That’s where my Easy Air Fryer Pesto Salmon comes in. With just three ingredients, minimal prep, and no preheating required, this dish is the epitome of simple elegance.

Juicy salmon is coated with vibrant pesto and seasoned with just a touch of salt and pepper before cooking to tender, flaky perfection in the air fryer (have I mentioned this is my favorite appliance???). It’s a no-fuss recipe that delivers big flavor in just 11 minutes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Minimal Ingredients: All you need is salmon, pesto, salt, and pepper.
Quick & Easy: The air fryer makes this recipe hands-off and mess-free.
Healthy & Delicious: Packed with protein and omega-3s, this salmon is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Easy Air Fryer Pesto Salmon
Ingredients:
2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Pat the salmon fillets dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto over the top of each fillet, covering evenly.
Place the salmon in the air fryer basket, skin side down . Set the air fryer to 390°F and cook for 11 minutes. No preheating is needed!
Once cooked, the salmon should be tender, flaky, and infused with the bright, herby flavor of pesto. Serve immediately.

Serving Ideas
Weeknight Meal: Pair with quick, microwave rice and roasted veggies.
Low-Carb Option: Serve alongside cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Fancy Dinner: Make with my Lemon Parmesan Risotto for a lovely weeknight treat!

Final Thoughts
This Easy Air Fryer Pesto Salmon proves that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to feel gourmet. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is a winner every time. Let me know in the comments if you try it—I’d love to hear how it turns out!
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