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Easy Air Fryer Pesto Salmon

  • Writer: Brittany Bartel
    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.


Prepared salmon

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.


Uncooked Salmon with Salt and Pepper

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:

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.

  2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto over the top of each fillet, covering evenly.

  3. 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!

  4. Once cooked, the salmon should be tender, flaky, and infused with the bright, herby flavor of pesto. Serve immediately.


Salmon in air fryer

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!


Plated pesto salmon with rice and green beans

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!

Comments


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Hi, thanks for stopping by!

Welcome to Birdie's Musings—a food blog inspired by my own journey balancing a busy career with a love for gourmet food! Here, I share simple yet sophisticated recipes that bring a touch of luxury to everyday meals without demanding hours of your time. Let's make it easy to enjoy gourmet flavors, even on your busiest days.

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