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Air Fryer Pesto Cod

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Air Fryer Pesto Cod — Are you looking for an easy cod recipe for your air fryer? One of my favorites is air-fried pesto cod, which only needs a few ingredients for this delicious recipe.

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,

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pesto Cod

Embark on a culinary adventure with Air Fryer Pesto Cod, a dish that promises to deliver a symphony of flavors with minimal fuss. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet meal that’s both healthy and satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Cod Fillets: The star of the dish, cod fillets offer 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, pesto sauce brings a rich, herby flavor that complements the delicate taste of cod.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps to keep the cod moist and tender while cooking and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
Lemon Wedges: Serving with lemon wedges on the side allows diners to add a bright, citrusy zing that enhances the flavors of the pesto and cod.
Salt and Pepper: A simple seasoning of salt and pepper elevates the cod’s natural flavors and balances the pesto’s zest.

How To Make Air Fryer Pesto Cod

Creating Air Fryer Pesto Cod is a simple, straightforward process that results in a deliciously healthy meal. Here’s how to make it:

Preparation: Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the pesto and oil adhere better and ensures a crispy finish.
Season the Cod: Lightly season each cod fillet with salt and pepper. This will enhance the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering the pesto.
Apply Pesto: Spread a tablespoon of pesto sauce evenly over the top of each cod fillet. Be generous with the pesto to ensure each bite is flavorful.
Drizzle Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the pesto-covered cod fillets. This not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also helps to keep the fish moist during cooking.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. A preheated air fryer ensures the cod cooks evenly.
Arrange the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching to allow for even air circulation and cooking. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Cook: Air fry the cod at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your fillets, so it’s a good idea to check for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the cod fillets from the air fryer. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty kick.

Recipe Tips

To elevate your Air Fryer Pesto Cod and ensure it turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful recipe tips:

Choose the Right Cod: To ensure even cooking, opt for fresh or thoroughly thawed cod fillets. Fresh cod should have a moist appearance and a mild scent. If you’re using frozen cod, let it thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
Customize Your Pesto: While store-bought pesto is great for convenience, homemade pesto allows you to adjust the flavors to your preference—experiment with adding more garlic, different nuts, or even spinach for a unique twist.
Ensure Even Thickness: Select cod fillets that are uniform in thickness. This promotes even cooking. If the fillets have varying thicknesses, consider cutting them into more uniform pieces.
Prevent Sticking: Even though most air fryers are non-stick, lightly greasing the basket with olive oil spray or oil brush helps prevent the fish from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Don’t Overcrowd: Air circulation is key in an air fryer. Arrange the cod fillets in a single layer with space between them. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly and get a nice crust from the pesto.
Adjust Cooking Time: The thickness of your fillets will affect cooking time. Start checking for doneness at the 10-minute mark. Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the cod rest for a few minutes before serving. This redistributes the juices, ensuring the fillets are moist and flavorful.
Experiment with Flavors: Cod’s mild flavor makes it a fantastic canvas for various seasonings and sauces. Beyond pesto, consider experimenting with different herbs, spices, or even a squeeze of citrus for a fresh twist.
Reheating Leftovers: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed. This method is better than microwaving for maintaining the texture.

Incorporating these tips into your cooking process will help you master the art of making Air Fryer Pesto Cod, turning it into a meal that’s sure to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!

What To Serve With Pesto Cod

Complement your Air Fryer Pesto Cod with sides that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the fish. Light salads, steamed vegetables, or a simple quinoa salad are excellent choices.

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