Parmesan-Basil Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Introduction

This Parmesan-basil Air Fryer Salmon is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a flavorful, crispy-topped fish dinner. With a fragrant herb and cheese crust, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal that feels special without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 fillets salmon (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped (Can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried basil.)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (Feel free to adjust the level of garlic to taste.)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Lemon wedges, as needed (for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Mix well.
3. Step 3: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over each fillet and rub it in evenly.
4. Step 4: Press the Parmesan and basil mixture onto the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring an even coating.
5. Step 5: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets in the basket, skin-side down, making sure they are not overcrowded.
6. Step 6: Cook the salmon in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the topping is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
7. Step 7: Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer using a fish spatula. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder garlic flavor, use only one clove or roast the garlic lightly before mixing.
• Try substituting fresh basil with chopped fresh parsley or dill for a different herb profile.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the salmon in a 400°F oven on a foil-lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked fillets for added brightness just before serving.

Storage

Store leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at a lower temperature or in a microwave until warmed through to avoid drying out the fish.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed salmon fillets for even cooking and the best texture. If using frozen, thaw completely in the fridge before preparing.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

You can substitute dried basil, using about one tablespoon, or try other fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a different but delicious flavor.

Parmesan-Basil Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 117 reviews

• Author: Gabriel
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Parmesan-basil Air Fryer Salmon recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare salmon with a crispy, golden Parmesan and basil crust. Perfectly cooked in under 15 minutes, this dish combines fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of paprika for a savory, aromatic finish that even picky eaters love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salmon and Topping

• 4 fillets salmon (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

For Serving

• lemon wedges, as needed

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat for about 5 minutes to prepare the cooking environment.
2. Prepare the topping: In a mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika. Mix these ingredients until well blended to create the flavorful crust.
3. Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the topping sticks well. Drizzle olive oil over each fillet and rub evenly across the surface.
4. Coat the salmon: Press the Parmesan and basil mixture firmly onto the top side of each salmon fillet, creating an even and generous coating.
5. Air fryer setup: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the salmon fillets in the basket skin-side down, making sure they are not overcrowded for even cooking.
6. Cook the salmon: Air fry the salmon for 10-12 minutes until the fish is cooked through and the topping is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
7. Serve: Using a fish spatula, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to brighten the flavors.

Notes

• You can substitute dried basil for fresh basil if needed, but fresh basil provides a brighter flavor.
• Adjust the amount of garlic based on your taste preference; more garlic will intensify the flavor.
• If you don’t have a cooking spray, you can lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
• The optional paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and a bit of color but can be omitted if preferred.
• Ensure the salmon fillets are evenly sized for consistent cooking results.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Parmesan basil salmon, air fryer salmon recipe, quick salmon, healthy salmon dinner, garlic basil salmon, air fried fish