Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner? Try making Parmesan-Basil Air Fryer Salmon! This easy recipe delivers tender salmon fillets crusted with a flavorful blend of cheese and herbs. Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests, this dish is sure to elevate your dinner table with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Cooked in under 15 minutes without a long prep time.
Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common items like salmon, Parmesan, and basil.
Perfect for Any Meal: Works great for weeknights or special occasions.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of Parmesan and fresh basil creates an irresistible topping.
Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients while being low in carbs.

This dish stands out because the air fryer gives the salmon a crispy texture while keeping it moist inside—just what you want in a perfect salmon dish!

Ingredients Needed

For the Salmon:
4 fillets of salmon (6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil as a substitute)
2 cloves garlic, minced (adjust for your garlic preference)
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For Serving:
Lemon wedges (for added flavor)

How to Make Parmesan-Basil Air Fryer Salmon

Preheat Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures even cooking.
Mix Topping: In a bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika if you choose to use it. Stir until well blended.
Prepare Salmon: Pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and rub it in evenly to help the topping stick.
Coat Salmon: Press the Parmesan and basil mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet, ensuring an even layer for great flavor.
Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets in the basket with the skin-side down, making sure they have space around them for air circulation.
Cook Salmon: Cook the salmon in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes. Look for a golden-brown topping and check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
Serve: Carefully use a fish spatula to remove the salmon from the air fryer. Serve hot, alongside lemon wedges for an extra zing!

Serving and Storage Tips

To enhance presentation, serve the salmon on a colorful plate, perhaps garnished with a few basil leaves. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to maintain its crispy topping.

Helpful Notes

For an extra kick, you can add a dash of cayenne pepper to the topping.
Try pairing with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
If you’re a fan of other herbs, feel free to experiment with dill or parsley in place of basil.

Conclusion

The Parmesan-Basil Air Fryer Salmon is not only quick and delightful but also creates a memorable meal for friends and family. Its vibrant flavors combined with the easy air-frying technique make it a winner in any kitchen. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating! Don’t forget to share your experiences or any variations you created on social media!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

You can use frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it first to ensure even cooking.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) indicates it’s fully cooked.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs or spices, such as dill or a squeeze of lime for a different flavor profile. What variations did you try? Let us know below!