Description
This Air Fryer Pistachio Crusted Salmon recipe offers a quick, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy salmon with a crunchy, nutty crust. The combination of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and creamy mayonnaise enhances the tender salmon, while the air fryer ensures a perfectly cooked, crispy exterior in just minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 5 salmon filets (about 5 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning
- Olive oil cooking spray
Herb Mayonnaise Dressing
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 4 fresh mint leaves, minced
- 1.5 tablespoons fresh dill, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about half a lemon)
Crust
- 3/4 cup pistachios, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF (204ºC) and spray the basket with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season the salmon: Lightly coat each salmon filet with the all-purpose seasoning, ensuring an even distribution of flavor on all sides.
- Prepare herb mayonnaise: In a small bowl, combine the light mayonnaise with minced fresh mint, minced fresh dill, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix well until smooth and aromatic.
- Apply mayonnaise and pistachio crust: Place the salmon filets in the preheated air fryer basket first, then spoon a generous amount of the herb mayonnaise mixture over each filet. Immediately top each with a heaping portion of finely chopped pistachios, pressing gently to adhere.
- Air fry the salmon: Lightly spray the top of the salmon and pistachio crust with olive oil. Cook for 6-8 minutes, checking at 6 minutes for doneness. For larger or thicker filets, add air frying time in 1-minute increments to avoid overcooking. The salmon should be flaky and the pistachio crust golden.
- Serve: Carefully remove the salmon filets using a small spatula to prevent breaking. Plate and optionally garnish with fresh dill for an extra touch of freshness.
Notes
- Ensure pistachios are finely chopped for a uniform crust that sticks well.
- Adjust air frying time based on the thickness of salmon filets to avoid drying out the fish.
- You can substitute light mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs will alter the taste and texture.
- If you do not have an air fryer, this recipe can be adapted to broil in an oven at 400ºF for 6-8 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning the pistachios.
