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- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each) - 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - Lemon wedges for serving Gather these ingredients before you start. You want fresh salmon and quality Parmesan for the best taste. The panko breadcrumbs give the salmon a nice crunch. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor. The seasonings are key for making your salmon flavorful. Garlic powder and onion powder boost the savory taste. Smoked paprika gives a hint of smokiness. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Don't forget the extra virgin olive oil! It helps the crust stick and adds richness. Lastly, lemon wedges will brighten up each bite. Enjoy this meal, and remember, quality ingredients make all the difference! Preheating the air fryer is key. It helps the salmon cook evenly and get crispy. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures a nice golden crust. In a medium bowl, combine finely grated Parmesan cheese with panko breadcrumbs. Add fresh parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. This blend gives the salmon a great flavor. Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the crust stick well. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, coating them lightly. Then, press the Parmesan mixture onto the top of each fillet. Make sure each piece is fully covered. Place the coated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Keep them in a single layer to allow air to flow around them. Cook for about 8-10 minutes. The crust should turn golden brown, and the salmon should flake easily with a fork. Once cooked, take the salmon out and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time helps keep the fish moist. Serve with lemon wedges. Squeezing lemon juice over the salmon adds a fresh and bright flavor that pairs perfectly. To get the best crust on your salmon, follow these tips: - Dry the fillets: Use paper towels to pat the salmon dry. This step helps the crust stick better. - Use the right oil: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil on both sides of the fillets. This adds flavor and aids in crisping. - Press firmly: When applying the Parmesan mixture, press it down firmly. This ensures an even coat and a solid crust. For crispy results, make sure: - The air fryer is preheated to 400°F (200°C). This gives the salmon a great start. - You do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed. This promotes even cooking and crispiness. Cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your salmon fillets: - Thin fillets: Cook for about 8 minutes. - Thicker fillets: Aim for 10 minutes. Check for doneness; the salmon should flake easily. Each air fryer model behaves differently. Here’s what to keep in mind: - Familiarize yourself: If you have a new air fryer, test it with other foods first. This helps you understand its cooking style. - Adjust settings: If your model runs hot or cool, adjust the time or temperature to suit your needs. Pair your crispy salmon with tasty side dishes: - Fresh salads: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the salmon. - Steamed veggies: Broccoli or asparagus add a fresh crunch and color. When plating, consider these techniques for a great presentation: - Use contrasting colors: Place the salmon on a bright plate. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. - Add lemon wedges: Arrange lemon wedges around the salmon. This not only looks nice but adds flavor when squeezed over the fish. {{image_4}} You can change the herbs for flavor. Try thyme, dill, or basil. Each herb brings a new taste. Adding lemon zest gives extra freshness. It brightens the dish and enhances the salmon's flavor. Use a microplane to finely grate the zest. A little goes a long way! If you want to use different cheeses, consider using pecorino or gouda. Both add unique flavors. For those who prefer vegan options, nutritional yeast works well. It gives a cheesy taste without dairy. You can also try a vegan parmesan made from nuts. This adds depth while keeping it plant-based. You can bake the salmon in the oven instead of using the air fryer. Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 12-15 minutes. This method gives a different texture but is still tasty. If you love the outdoors, grilling is an option too. Simply season the salmon and place it on the grill. Cook over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side. This adds a wonderful smoky flavor to your meal. To store your leftover salmon, let it cool first. Place the salmon in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days. I recommend using glass containers as they seal well and don’t absorb odors. You can also use plastic containers if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure they are tightly closed. To freeze cooked salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps the flavor intact. You can freeze salmon for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best taste. Avoid microwaving it directly from the freezer as this can lead to uneven thawing. When reheating salmon, the best method is using the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the salmon moist and helps maintain the crust's crunch. You can also reheat it in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F. This method helps revive the crispy texture that makes this dish so delightful. Yes, you can use skin-on salmon fillets. The skin adds flavor and helps keep the fish moist. It also gives you a nice contrast in texture. You will need to adjust the cooking time slightly. The skin will need to crisp up, so make sure to check for doneness. Cooking time depends on the thickness of the salmon. Generally, it takes 8-10 minutes in the air fryer. A thicker fillet may need a bit more time. Always check the salmon with a fork. It should flake easily when done. Yes, you can prepare the crust ahead of time. Combine the cheese, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. Store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to cook, just coat the salmon and air fry. This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make several fillets at once. Pair them with veggies or grains for a complete meal. Store the cooked salmon in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. The best temperature for salmon in an air fryer is 400°F (200°C). This high heat gives you a crispy crust while cooking the fish evenly. Preheat your air fryer to this temperature for the best results. You've learned how to make air-fried salmon with a crispy crust. This dish uses simple ingredients like salmon, cheese, and herbs. The steps include preparing the crust, coating the fillets, and cooking them to perfection. I shared tips for achieving the perfect crust and even cooking. You can play with flavors and methods, too. Whether you store leftovers or prepare meals ahead, this salmon stays tasty. Enjoy this easy and healthy meal anytime!

Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Crusted Salmon

Experience the delight of making Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Crusted Salmon in just 20 minutes! This delicious recipe combines tender salmon fillets with a crunchy, cheesy crust that is bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, your taste buds will thank you. Click now to explore the full recipe and elevate your meals with this easy and impressive dish! Enjoy mouthwatering salmon with a zesty lemon twist!
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Ingredients
  

4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)

1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly crispy crust on the salmon.

    In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the finely grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is evenly blended.

      Use paper towels to gently pat the salmon fillets dry. This helps the oil and the crust adhere better. Drizzle a light coating of extra virgin olive oil over the top and bottom of each fillet, ensuring they're well coated.

        Take each salmon fillet and generously press the Parmesan mixture onto the top side, ensuring it’s fully covered for a flavorful crust.

          Carefully place the coated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the fillets in batches for even cooking.

            Air fry the salmon for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and the salmon flakes easily with a fork when tested.

              After cooking, gently remove the fillets from the air fryer and allow them to rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a moist inside.

                Serve the salmon with lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lemon over the fillets adds a bright and zesty flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the fish.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, plate the salmon on a rustic wooden board or a sleek white plate. Drizzle a touch of olive oil over the fillets and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an inviting touch. Arrange the lemon wedges artistically on the side to enhance the dish's visual appeal and add that extra zing!