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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Coat the salmon: Press the Parmesan and basil mixture firmly onto the top side of each salmon fillet, creating an even and generous coating.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
