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Parmesan-Basil Air Fryer Salmon

A quick and luxurious 15-minute dinner featuring tender salmon fillets topped with a crispy, golden crust of parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and garlic, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salmon
  • 4 fillets skin-on salmon approx 6 oz each
  • 0.25 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
Parmesan Basil Crust
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated recommended
  • 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise acts as binder
  • 1 clove garlic minced

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Microplane or cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan, chopped basil, mayonnaise, and minced garlic to form a thick paste.
  4. Evenly spread the Parmesan mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Place fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Air fry for 7-10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the crust is golden brown and salmon flakes easily (internal temp around 130°F/54°C for medium).
  7. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving with fresh lemon wedges.

Notes

The mayonnaise adds moisture and helps the crust stick; you won't taste it. You can swap it for softened butter or olive oil if preferred. Watch the cooking time closely so the salmon doesn't dry out.