Parmesan-Basil Air Fryer Salmon

This crispy Parmesan-basil air fryer salmon has transformed my weeknight dinner routine, combining the richness of fresh salmon with savory cheese and herbs in a quick, no-fuss preparation that delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

I developed this recipe during a busy holiday season when I needed impressive dinners without spending hours in the kitchen. It's now become our family's most requested seafood dish, especially when we're craving something special but don't want to break our healthy eating habits.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets Four 6-oz portions provide the perfect serving size and cook evenly in the air fryer
• Grated Parmesan cheese Creates that irresistible golden crust while adding rich umami flavor
• Fresh basil Adds bright aromatic notes that perfectly complement the rich salmon
• Olive oil Helps the topping adhere while keeping the salmon moist
• Garlic The aromatic foundation that brings everything together
• Salt and pepper Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the fish
• Paprika Adds subtle smoky notes and beautiful color to the finished dish
• Lemon wedges The finishing touch of acidity balances the richness perfectly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the air fryer

Warm your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the proper temperature. This preheating step is crucial for achieving that golden crust on the parmesan topping without overcooking the salmon.

Prepare the parmesan mixture

Combine grated parmesan cheese, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl, mixing thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. This creates a uniform topping that will distribute flavors evenly across the salmon.

Prepare the salmon

Pat each fillet completely dry with paper towels, which is essential for helping the olive oil and topping adhere properly. Drizzle olive oil over each piece, using your fingers to ensure every part of the fish is lightly coated.

Apply the topping

Press the parmesan mixture firmly onto the top of each salmon fillet, creating an even layer that will become deliciously crispy during cooking. Make sure to use all of the mixture, as this is where the magic happens.

Arrange in air fryer

Coat the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray, then place the salmon skin-side down with space between each piece. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking.

Cook to perfection

Air fry for 10-12 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The fish should flake easily with a fork but still remain moist inside.

Serve immediately

Use a fish spatula to carefully remove each piece from the air fryer, preserving that beautiful crispy topping. Present with lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over their portion according to taste.

Bookmark

The fresh basil in this recipe completely transforms the dish. I grow basil in my kitchen window garden year-round specifically for this salmon recipe. Once when I was out of fresh basil, I substituted dried and while still delicious, my husband immediately noticed the difference. The fragrant oils in fresh basil create an aromatic experience that dried simply cannot match.

Perfect Pairings

This salmon truly shines when served alongside simple, bright side dishes that complement rather than compete with its rich flavors. A lightly dressed arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette makes an excellent partner, the peppery greens cutting through the richness of the fish. For a more substantial meal, roasted asparagus or steamed green beans provide a crisp-tender texture contrast that works beautifully. I often serve this with a small portion of quinoa or brown rice to absorb the delicious juices that escape during cooking.

Storage and Reheating

While this salmon is at its absolute best served immediately after air frying, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, avoid the microwave which will turn your once-crispy topping soggy. Instead, warm in a 275°F oven for about 10 minutes until just heated through. The parmesan topping will never be quite as crispy as when first made, but the flavor remains delicious. I often deliberately make extra to flake over salads the next day for a protein-rich lunch option.

Ingredient Swaps

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. No fresh basil? Substitute fresh dill or parsley, each bringing their own character to the dish. For those avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast provides a surprisingly cheese-like flavor in place of parmesan, though the texture will be slightly different. The salmon itself can be swapped for similar fish like steelhead trout or arctic char with excellent results. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne to the topping mixture or substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika to add depth.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this air fryer dish?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but you'll need to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat the thawed salmon dry with paper towels to ensure the Parmesan-basil topping adheres properly and to achieve that crispy exterior.

→ How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time of 10-12 minutes is usually sufficient for 6 oz fillets, but cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon and your specific air fryer model.

→ Can I make this dish without an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can bake the Parmesan-basil salmon in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The topping might not get quite as crispy as in an air fryer, but it will still be delicious.

→ What can I substitute for fresh basil?

If fresh basil isn't available, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Alternatively, you could try other fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or parsley, adjusting quantities to taste. Each will bring a different flavor profile to the dish.

→ Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, this Parmesan-basil salmon is keto-friendly as it's high in protein and healthy fats while being low in carbohydrates. Salmon, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and herbs are all compatible with a ketogenic diet.

→ What sides pair well with this salmon?

This salmon pairs beautifully with light sides like roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, a fresh spinach salad, or cauliflower rice. For a more substantial meal, consider serving with quinoa, wild rice, or roasted potatoes if not following a low-carb diet.