Pesto Salmon
The ultimate comfort food, Pesto Salmon is a rich and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory flavor and quick preparation, it's ideal for a weeknight dinner. Treat yourself to this delightful meal tonight!
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Sheet Pan
Ingredients
- 25 ounces Salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Prepared pesto
- 2 tablespoons Shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. While it’s heating, prepare your salmon. I like to use a paper towel to pat the salmon fillets dry, ensuring a nice sear later on. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing for a better texture.
- Spritz the basket of your air fryer with olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking. This simple step can make a world of difference in cleanup!
- Now, take 1 tablespoon of the prepared pesto and spread it generously over the top of each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy—this is where a lot of flavor comes from!
- Next, sprinkle each fillet with 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a delicious crust as it cooks.
- Carefully place the salmon in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7 minutes at 400°F. Depending on the thickness of the fillets, you might need to add a few extra minutes, so keep an eye on them.
- While the salmon is cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F for those who prefer baking. This method will also yield fantastic results.
- Once the air fryer timer goes off, check the salmon for flakiness. If it flakes easily with a fork, it's done! If not, give it another couple of minutes.
- If you’re baking, spritz a small sheet pan with olive oil, then repeat the pesto and cheese topping on the salmon before placing it in the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping in mind the thickness of the fillets.
- Once your Pesto Salmon is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer or oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist, tender fish.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top for a zing that complements the rich flavors. Serve immediately and enjoy your masterpiece!
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked Pesto Salmon for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to mix different herbs into your pesto, such as cilantro or parsley, to change the flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Try using the same pesto topping on vegetables like zucchini or eggplant and roast them for a delicious vegetarian option.