Air Fryer Pesto Salmon: Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

When you need a restaurant-quality dinner ready in just 15 minutes, air fryer pesto salmon delivers every single time. This simple yet sophisticated recipe combines tender, flaky salmon fillets with vibrant basil pesto, creating a flavor-packed meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Whether you’re using store-bought pesto for ultimate convenience or homemade pesto for maximum freshness, this easy air fryer salmon recipe will become your new weeknight dinner MVP.

Table of Contents

Why Air Fryer Pesto Salmon is a Weeknight Winner

Air fryer pesto salmon has taken social media by storm, and once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a viral sensation. Here’s what makes this pesto crusted salmon absolutely irresistible:

Incredibly Fast: From fridge to table in just 15 minutes total. The air fryer cooks salmon faster than traditional oven baking, making this perfect for those hectic evenings when you need dinner ASAP.

Only 3-5 Ingredients: This simple salmon recipe requires just salmon fillets, pesto, salt, and pepper—plus optional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. No complicated ingredient lists or specialty items needed.

Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan in pesto transform plain salmon into something truly special. The vibrant green color and aromatic herbs make this dish look as impressive as it tastes.

Perfect Texture Every Time: The air fryer creates beautifully crispy edges while keeping the center moist and flaky. The pesto acts as a protective barrier, locking in moisture and preventing the salmon from drying out.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Combine omega-3 rich salmon with antioxidant-packed basil, heart-healthy olive oil, and protein from Parmesan for a meal that nourishes your body while satisfying your taste buds.

Versatile and Customizable: Serve it over pasta, alongside roasted vegetables, in grain bowls, or on top of fresh salad. This recipe adapts beautifully to any meal plan or dietary preference.

Minimal Cleanup: One air fryer basket to wash instead of multiple pans, baking sheets, and utensils. That means more time enjoying your meal and less time at the sink.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Pesto Salmon

For the Salmon:

2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil spray for the air fryer basket
Lemon wedges for serving

For Pesto Crusted Version (Optional):

3 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh lemon juice

For Homemade Basil Pesto (Makes about 1 cup):

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
3 cloves garlic
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Air Fryer Pesto Salmon: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Make the Pesto (If Using Homemade)

If you’re making homemade basil pesto, start here. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts (or pecans or walnuts), garlic cloves, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Pulse until the basil is roughly chopped and the ingredients are combined.

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Stop the processor, add the grated Parmesan cheese, and pulse a few times to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Set aside half of the pesto for topping the cooked salmon. Store the remaining pesto in the refrigerator with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to prevent browning.

Time-Saving Tip: Store-bought pesto works beautifully for this recipe! Look for refrigerated pesto in the deli section for the freshest flavor, or use jarred pesto from the pasta aisle. High-quality brands like Costco’s Kirkland pesto, Trader Joe’s, or DeLallo are excellent choices.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Remove your salmon fillets from the refrigerator and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step removes excess moisture that would prevent proper browning and create steam instead of that desirable crispy exterior.

If using skin-on salmon, leave the skin on—it crisps up beautifully in the air fryer and protects the delicate flesh from overcooking. The skin also makes it easier to remove the salmon from the air fryer basket after cooking.

Season both sides of the salmon fillets lightly with salt and black pepper. Don’t overdo it since the pesto adds plenty of flavor.

Step 3: Apply the Pesto

Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto generously over the top (flesh side) of each salmon fillet. Use the back of a spoon or a silicone brush to create an even layer that covers the entire surface. Be generous—the pesto keeps the salmon incredibly moist and adds tremendous flavor.

If you’re making the pesto crusted version, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the pesto layer, followed by additional grated Parmesan cheese. Press gently so the breadcrumbs adhere to the pesto. This creates an irresistible crunchy topping.

Chef’s Tip: Some cooks prefer to add the pesto after cooking to keep its vibrant green color and fresh flavor. Either method works—experiment to find your preference!

Step 4: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking from the moment the salmon enters the basket and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

While the air fryer preheats, lightly spray or brush the basket with olive oil or cooking spray. This prevents the salmon from sticking and makes cleanup much easier. If using parchment paper, make sure it has holes and is trimmed to size to allow proper air circulation.

Step 5: Air Fry the Pesto Salmon

Carefully place the pesto-topped salmon fillets in the preheated air fryer basket, skin-side down if using skin-on salmon. Make sure the fillets don’t touch or overlap. Leave space between them for optimal air circulation.

Cooking Times:

Thin fillets (3/4 to 1 inch thick): 7-8 minutes at 400°F
Standard fillets (1 to 1.25 inches thick): 9-10 minutes at 400°F
Thick fillets (1.5 inches): 11-12 minutes at 400°F

No flipping required! The circulating hot air cooks the salmon evenly without turning. Flipping risks losing the pesto topping and breaking the delicate fish.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

The salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F at the thickest part. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check—this is the most reliable method.

Visual cues for properly cooked pesto salmon:

The fish flakes easily when tested with a fork
The flesh is opaque throughout (no translucent raw-looking areas)
The pesto topping is slightly golden and fragrant
If using breadcrumbs, they should be golden brown and crispy
The edges are lightly browned and crispy

If you prefer your salmon medium-rare with a slightly translucent center, aim for an internal temperature of 125-135°F. The salmon will continue cooking slightly as it rests.

Step 7: Add Fresh Pesto and Serve

If you reserved some fresh pesto for serving (highly recommended!), drizzle it over the cooked salmon immediately after removing it from the air fryer. This adds an extra burst of fresh basil flavor and makes the presentation stunning.

Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens all the flavors and adds a refreshing zing that perfectly complements the rich pesto and salmon.

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pesto Salmon

Pat Salmon Completely Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Take an extra moment to thoroughly dry your salmon fillets with paper towels before seasoning.

Choose Quality Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon delivers the best flavor and texture. Look for bright, firm fillets with no fishy smell. Sockeye, coho, king salmon, and Atlantic salmon all work beautifully.

Don’t Skip the Preheat: Those few minutes of preheating make a noticeable difference in achieving even cooking and proper browning on the pesto topping.

Use Quality Pesto: Since pesto is a star ingredient here, quality matters. Whether store-bought or homemade, use pesto that tastes fresh and vibrant, not dull or overly oily.

Mind Your Air Fryer Size: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if necessary rather than overlapping fillets. Proper air circulation is key to success.

Fresh Pesto Finish: For the most vibrant flavor and color, spread a conservative amount of pesto before cooking and drizzle fresh pesto over the finished salmon.

Adjust Temperature for Thickness: If your salmon fillets are particularly thin, reduce the temperature to 380°F and cook for 6-7 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Try Different Pestos: While classic basil pesto is traditional, don’t be afraid to experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, or spinach pesto for variety.

Add Lemon Zest: For extra brightness, grate lemon zest over the pesto before air frying. The citrus oils intensify in the heat and add incredible aroma.

Watch the Last Few Minutes: Check your salmon a minute or two early the first time you make this recipe. Every air fryer cooks slightly differently, so adjust timing for your specific model.

Delicious Serving Ideas for Pesto Salmon

Air fryer pesto salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with countless sides and preparations. Here are some inspired ways to serve this flavorful fish:

Over Pasta for Pesto Salmon Pasta

Toss your favorite pasta (linguine, penne, or farfalle work wonderfully) with extra pesto and a splash of pasta cooking water. Top with the air-fried pesto salmon, either whole or flaked into chunks. Add cherry tomatoes, fresh arugula, and additional Parmesan for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Mediterranean-Style Grain Bowl

Create a nutritious Mediterranean bowl with a base of quinoa, farro, or couscous. Add roasted vegetables (zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion), cucumber, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and top with the pesto salmon. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

Fresh Garden Salad

Place the pesto salmon over mixed greens, arugula, or spinach with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and avocado. Use a light lemon vinaigrette or simply dress with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Salmon Sandwich or Wrap

Flake the cooked salmon and serve in a wrap or on toasted ciabatta bread with fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, arugula, and a spread of additional pesto. This makes an incredible lunch option.

With Roasted Vegetables

Pair your pesto salmon with oven-roasted or air-fried vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or green beans. The earthy vegetables complement the bright pesto perfectly.

Simple with Rice

Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option) with steamed vegetables for a balanced, straightforward meal.

Meal Prep Bowls

Portion the cooked salmon into meal prep containers with your choice of grain, roasted vegetables, and a side of extra pesto for drizzling. These make excellent grab-and-go lunches for the week.

Best Side Dishes for Pesto Crusted Salmon

Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus with lemon, roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic green beans, or balsamic Brussels sprouts all pair beautifully with the Italian flavors of pesto.

Pasta Sides: Garlic butter pasta, lemon orzo, pesto pasta, or simple angel hair with olive oil and Parmesan complement without overwhelming the salmon.

Potato Dishes: Garlic roasted potatoes, crispy baby potatoes, or creamy mashed potatoes provide heartiness and comfort.

Fresh Salads: Caprese salad, arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, cucumber tomato salad, or a simple Italian chopped salad add freshness.

Grains: Lemon herb quinoa, Mediterranean couscous, or garlic butter rice pilaf make excellent bases for the salmon.

Italian Bread: Crusty Italian bread, garlic bread, or focaccia is perfect for soaking up any extra pesto and salmon juices.

Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli, green beans, or snap peas keep things light and let the pesto salmon shine.

Variations and Flavor Twists

Pesto Crusted Salmon with Panko: Mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and press onto the pesto-topped salmon before air frying. This creates an incredible crispy crust.

Lemon Pesto Salmon: Add extra lemon zest and lemon juice to your pesto for a brighter, more citrus-forward flavor profile.

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Salmon: Substitute basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a sweeter, more intense flavor.

Spinach Pesto Salmon: Use spinach pesto or combine spinach with basil for a milder, iron-rich variation.

Arugula Pesto Salmon: Swap basil for peppery arugula in your pesto for a sophisticated, slightly spicy twist.

Kale Pesto Salmon: Use kale pesto for extra nutrients and a heartier, earthier flavor.

Pistachio Pesto: Replace pine nuts with pistachios for a unique, slightly sweet flavor and beautiful green color.

Walnut Pesto: Use walnuts instead of pine nuts for a more budget-friendly option with additional omega-3s.

Dairy-Free Pesto Salmon: Make or buy dairy-free pesto (omit the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast) for a paleo or dairy-free option.

Making Homemade Pesto: Tips and Tricks

Use Fresh Basil: The fresher your basil, the more vibrant and aromatic your pesto will be. Look for bright green leaves with no dark spots.

Toast Your Nuts: Toasting pine nuts, walnuts, or pecans for 5-7 minutes at 350°F enhances their flavor and adds depth to the pesto.

Quality Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil. Since pesto uses a significant amount of oil, the flavor really comes through.

Real Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano makes a huge difference compared to pre-grated cheese. The flavor is sharper and more complex.

Add Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some zest brightens the pesto and helps preserve its green color.

Prevent Browning: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of homemade pesto before refrigerating to prevent oxidation and browning.

Freeze for Later: Freeze pesto in ice cube trays, then transfer to freezer bags. Each cube is perfect for a single serving of salmon.

Adjust Consistency: Add more olive oil for a thinner, more drizzleable pesto, or less for a thicker spread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked pesto salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep any extra pesto separate for best results.

Freezer Storage: Cooked salmon (without the fresh pesto topping) can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pesto Storage: Homemade pesto keeps for 5-7 days in the refrigerator when stored properly with plastic wrap pressed against the surface. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating in Air Fryer: The best method for maintaining texture. Preheat to 350°F and reheat for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. The edges will crisp up again nicely.

Reheating in Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F and reheat on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes. Cover loosely with foil if it seems to be drying out.

Microwave Reheating: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 45-60 seconds. This is the fastest method but won’t maintain the crispy pesto topping.

Serving Cold: Pesto salmon is delicious served cold over salads or in sandwiches, so reheating isn’t always necessary.

Nutritional Benefits of Pesto Salmon

This simple recipe delivers impressive nutritional value, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters:

Salmon Benefits:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Approximately 2-3 grams per serving, supporting heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation
High-Quality Protein: About 35-40 grams per 6-ounce fillet for muscle maintenance and satiety
Vitamin D: One of the few natural food sources, essential for bone health and immune function
B Vitamins: Rich in B12, B6, and niacin, supporting energy metabolism
Selenium: A powerful antioxidant that supports thyroid function

Pesto Benefits:

Basil: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
Olive Oil: Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
Garlic: Immune-boosting properties and cardiovascular benefits
Nuts: Additional healthy fats, protein, and minerals
Parmesan: Extra protein and calcium

Approximate Nutrition (per serving with 6 oz salmon and 2 tbsp pesto):

Calories: 390-420
Protein: 40-45 grams
Fat: 22-26 grams
Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams
Fiber: 0.5 grams

This balanced macro profile makes pesto salmon perfect for keto, paleo, Mediterranean, low-carb, and high-protein diets.

Oven-Baked Alternative to Air Fryer

Don’t have an air fryer? You can still make delicious pesto salmon in your conventional oven:

Oven Method:

Preheat your oven to 400-425°F (200-220°C)
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil
Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared sheet
Top with pesto (and breadcrumbs if using)
Bake for 12-15 minutes for standard fillets, or 15-18 minutes for thicker pieces
For extra crispy breadcrumbs, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end
Check that internal temperature reaches 145°F

The oven method takes slightly longer but produces equally delicious results with a beautiful pesto crust.

Meal Prep with Air Fryer Pesto Salmon

This recipe is ideal for weekly meal prep, helping you stay on track with healthy eating goals:

Sunday Prep Strategy:

Cook 4-6 salmon fillets in batches in your air fryer
Make a full batch of homemade pesto (stores for a week)
Prepare grain bases (quinoa, rice, pasta)
Chop vegetables for easy assembly
Portion everything into meal prep containers

Storage Tips:

Keep salmon and wet ingredients separate until eating to maintain texture
Store extra pesto in a small container for drizzling
Include lemon wedges for freshness when reheating

Lunch and Dinner Combos:

Monday: Pesto salmon over salad
Tuesday: Flaked salmon in a wrap
Wednesday: Salmon with roasted vegetables
Thursday: Salmon pasta with extra pesto
Friday: Salmon grain bowl

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dry, Overcooked Salmon: Reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes. Use a meat thermometer and remove at 140°F to let it coast to 145°F during resting.

Pesto Burning: If the pesto or breadcrumbs seem to be burning, reduce temperature to 380°F and add 2 minutes to cooking time. Cover loosely with foil for the last few minutes.

Salmon Sticking: Always spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil before adding salmon. Use enough pesto as it acts as a barrier between fish and basket.

Uneven Cooking: Make sure fillets are similar in thickness and size. Arrange with space between them for proper air circulation.

Pesto Too Thick: If your pesto is very thick and not spreading easily, thin it with a tablespoon of olive oil or lemon juice.

Bland Flavor: Season the salmon with salt and pepper before adding pesto. Don’t be shy with the pesto—use a generous amount. Add fresh pesto after cooking for maximum flavor.

Soggy Bottom: Make sure salmon is completely dry before adding pesto. Don’t use too much liquid pesto. If necessary, drain excess oil from jarred pesto.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use skin-on or skinless salmon for pesto salmon? Both work great! Skin-on salmon crisps up beautifully and is easier to remove from the air fryer. Skinless works perfectly fine too and requires no extra prep. Choose based on your preference.

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe? Absolutely! Store-bought pesto makes this recipe incredibly quick and easy. Look for refrigerated pesto for the freshest flavor, but jarred pesto works well too.

How long do I cook pesto salmon in the air fryer? Cook at 400°F for 7-10 minutes depending on thickness. Thin fillets need 7-8 minutes, standard fillets need 9-10 minutes, and thick fillets need 11-12 minutes.

Do I need to flip the salmon when air frying? No! The beauty of air frying is that the circulating hot air cooks the salmon evenly without flipping. Flipping risks losing the pesto topping.

What temperature should pesto salmon reach? The USDA recommends 145°F for safety. For medium-rare salmon with a slightly translucent center, aim for 125-135°F.

Can I make this with frozen salmon? Yes, but thaw it completely first for best results. Pat the thawed salmon very dry before applying pesto and air frying.

Should I add pesto before or after cooking? Most people add pesto before cooking, which keeps the salmon moist. For the brightest flavor and color, add some fresh pesto after cooking too.

Can I add breadcrumbs to make it crispy? Yes! Mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan and sprinkle over the pesto before air frying for a delicious crunchy crust.

What’s the best pesto for salmon? Classic basil pesto is traditional and delicious. Sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, and spinach pesto are also excellent choices.

Can I meal prep air fryer pesto salmon? Absolutely! Cook multiple fillets, let cool, and store in meal prep containers for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for healthy lunches.

Is pesto salmon keto-friendly? Yes! This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, with only 2-3 grams of carbs per serving from the pesto.

What goes well with pesto salmon? Pasta, roasted vegetables, salads, quinoa, rice, or simply with crusty bread all pair beautifully with pesto salmon.

Why This Recipe Works for Everyone

Air fryer pesto salmon is the rare recipe that appeals to everyone—from cooking novices to experienced home chefs, from picky eaters to adventurous foodies. The combination of foolproof technique, minimal ingredients, and maximum flavor makes this a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

For busy professionals, it’s a lifesaver that delivers a nutritious, impressive dinner in less time than ordering takeout. For health-conscious eaters, it provides omega-3s, protein, and vegetables (if serving with sides) in one beautiful package. For families, it’s approachable enough that kids enjoy it while being sophisticated enough for adult palates.

The versatility is unmatched—serve it simply on a weeknight or dress it up for company. Make it with jarred pesto on Tuesday or homemade pesto on Sunday. Pair it with pasta for indulgence or salad for a lighter meal. However you make it, this recipe just works.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer pesto salmon transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. The combination of tender, omega-3 rich salmon with vibrant basil pesto creates a dish that tastes like it came from an Italian restaurant, yet requires minimal effort in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, scrambling to get dinner on the table, or hosting friends for a special meal, this recipe rises to every occasion. The bright green pesto, perfectly cooked salmon, and aromatic basil create a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
Internal Temp: 145°F
Equipment: Air fryer, instant-read meat thermometer, food processor (if making homemade pesto)