Easy Air Fryer Pesto Cod Recipe

This Easy Air Fryer Pesto Cod is tender, flaky, and bursting with fresh, herby pesto flavor. Quick and healthy, it’s a simple seafood dinner that’s ready in minutes.

If you love pesto, try my pesto air fryer recipes for shrimp, air-fried pesto potatoes, air fryer chicken pesto sliders, air fryer pesto chicken breast, air fryer pesto chicken and tomato kebabs, or even air-fried pesto pinwheels.

For easy Instant Pot Pesto recipes, try my recipe for instant pot cashew basil pesto chicken.

More Easy Cod Recipes

Easy Air Fryer Frozen Cod

Cod Cheeks in Panko Breadcrumbs

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Cod

Air Fryer Blackened Cod

Air Fryer Panko Cod

Air Fryer Almond Crusted Cod

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Fresh, vibrant flavor: Pesto adds a herby, garlicky punch to the cod.
• Tender, flaky fish: The air fryer keeps the cod perfectly cooked inside.
• Quick and easy: Ready in minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Healthy and light: A protein-packed meal without excess oil or calories.
• Versatile serving options: Pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients Needed

• Cod Fillets: Offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a flaky texture that pairs wonderfully with the boldness of pesto.
• Pesto Sauce: A vibrant blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
• Olive Oil: Keeps the cod moist and tender while cooking.
• Lemon Wedges: Adds a bright, citrusy zing that enhances the flavors of the pesto and cod.
• Salt and Pepper: Elevates the cod’s natural flavors and balances the pesto’s zest.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Pesto Cod: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the cod before air frying.
• Spicy Pesto Cod: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the pesto for heat.

How To Make Air Fryer Pesto Cod

Step One: Pat each cod fillet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step Two: Lightly sprinkle salt and black pepper over both sides of each fillet. Evenly coat the top of each fillet with about a tablespoon of pesto sauce. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the pesto-coated cod for extra flavor and moisture.

Step Three: Set your air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F (200°C), preheat for 2-3 minutes. Place the cod fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Set cook time for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Easy Air Fryer Pesto Cod Recipe Tips

• Pat the cod dry: Removing excess moisture helps the pesto stick and ensures even cooking.
• Use fresh pesto: Homemade or store-bought pesto adds the best flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Arrange fillets in a single layer to allow proper air circulation.
• Check doneness: The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
• Optional add-ons: Sprinkle Parmesan or breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
• Serve immediately: The fish tastes best right out of the air fryer.

Storing Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftover cod in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy texture.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as pesto and cooked cod may lose quality when thawed.

Easy Air Fryer Pesto Cod Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen cod fillets? Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and air frying.

Can I use store-bought pesto? Absolutely. Both homemade and store-bought pesto work well for this recipe.

How do I know when the cod is done? The fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Can I make this gluten-free? Yes. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your pesto contains no gluten ingredients.

What should I serve with pesto cod? Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I add extra flavor? Yes, sprinkle Parmesan, lemon zest, or a pinch of crushed red pepper over the fillets before air frying.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER BOSTON BROWN BREAD
• AIR FRYER HOMEMADE PIZZA ROLLS
• EASY AIR FRYER LATKES
• AIR FRYER FRIED GREEN TOMATOES
• AIR FRYER TWICE-BAKED SWEET POTATOES
• EASY AIR FRYER LOADED POTATO CHIPS
• Air Fryer Nutella Scrolls Recipe
• air fryer bacon wrapped pickle dippers

Don’t Forget To Pin!

Share Your Creations! Are you active on Facebook? Join our Air Fryer Recipes Group, where hundreds of thousands of Air Fryer enthusiasts gather and share your photos! I’m always thrilled to see what you’ve made. For those on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me @forktospoon – I can’t wait to admire your culinary adventures!​