This Easy Air Fryer Pistachio Crusted Salmon is crispy, nutty, and perfectly cooked in just minutes. It’s a quick, healthy dinner that’s elegant enough for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy Air Fryer Pistachio Crusted Salmon.
The crunchy pistachio coating adds a nutty, flavorful twist to tender, perfectly cooked salmon, all done in just minutes.
Quick, healthy, and impressive, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home without the fuss.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Crispy pistachio crust adds irresistible flavor and texture.
- Salmon cooks perfectly in just minutes in the air fryer.
- Healthy, protein-packed dinner that’s light yet satisfying.
- Elegant enough for special occasions but simple enough for weeknights.
- Minimal prep and cleanup make it an easy go-to recipe.
Ingredients Needed
- Salmon fillets: Fresh, tender salmon fillets ready for pistachio coating
- Shelled pistachios: Crunchy pistachios chopped to create a flavorful crust
- Panko breadcrumbs: Light, airy breadcrumbs for extra crispiness and texture
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the pistachio crust brown
- Lemon zest: Bright citrus flavor to enhance the salmon’s taste
- Garlic powder: Subtle savory note to complement nutty crust
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors of the salmon and crust
- Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor
How To Make Easy Air Fryer Pistachio Crusted Salmon Recipe
Step One: Preheat your air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. In a bowl, combine finely chopped pistachios, panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step Two: Brush each salmon fillet with olive oil, then press the pistachio mixture onto the top of each fillet until evenly coated. Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching.
Step Three: Air Fry at 400°F (200°C) and set cook time for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Step Four: Remove from the air fryer and serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon or your favorite side dish.
Easy Air Fryer Pistachio Crusted Salmon Recipe Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. Give each fillet space so the crust stays crispy.
- Use fresh salmon because it cooks more evenly and has a better texture.
- Chop the pistachios finely to ensure the crust sticks well and browns evenly.
- Brush the fillets with olive oil to help the crust turn golden and add flavor.
- Check the thickness of the fillets for cooking time, as thicker pieces may need an extra one to two minutes.
- Serve the salmon immediately to enjoy the crust at its crispiest.
- Add an optional garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of parsley to brighten the dish.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
- Storing Instructions: Store leftover pistachio-crusted salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep it chilled to maintain freshness and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat the salmon in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soft and lose its crunch.
Easy Air Fryer Pistachio Crusted Salmon Recipe Faqs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the salmon first for even cooking and to help the crust stick properly.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of the air fryer? Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden.
Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios? Yes, almonds, pecans, or walnuts work well for a similar crunchy, nutty crust.
How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
How do you get the pistachios to stick? Use honey, Dijon mustard, or mayo as a binder.
Can I prepare the pistachio crust ahead of time? Yes, you can mix the pistachios, panko, and seasonings ahead of time and store in an airtight container until ready to coat the salmon.
What can I serve with this salmon? Pair it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or steamed rice for a complete, healthy meal.
More Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipes
Olive Garden Salmon Bruschetta Recipe
Ninja Woodfire Grill Salmon Recipe
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The Best Easy Air Fryer Pistachio Crusted Salmon Recipe
Description
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets, skinless or skin-on
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine finely chopped 1 cup shelled pistachios, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and black pepper.
- Brush each 4 salmon fillets with 2 tablespoons olive oil, then press the pistachio mixture onto the top of each fillet until evenly coated.
- Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon or your favorite side dish.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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