Easy Pesto Crusted Salmon
This air fryer pesto crusted salmon is crispy on top, tender in the center, and comes together in under 15 minutes for an easy, high-protein dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillets skinless, portioned in 3-4 oz servings
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
- Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel and place on a plate or tray.
- Spread a thin layer of pesto evenly over the top of each fillet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the panko, parmesan, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Press the panko mixture gently into the pesto so it sticks and forms a crust.
- Place the salmon directly into the air fryer basket (or line it for easier cleanup).
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily and the top is golden.
- Serve warm and enjoy right away while the topping is still crisp.
Notes
- Press the panko mixture on gently so it sticks well but still stays light and crisp while cooking.
- If your salmon pieces vary in size, check the thinner ones first and remove them early to keep them from drying out.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to bring back the crisp texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 226kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 24gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 64mgSodium: 197mgPotassium: 579mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 210IUCalcium: 53mgIron: 1mg
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