Air Fryer Pistachio Crusted Salmon

This air fryer crusted pistachio salmon is seriously SO GOOD. With super simple prep and 12 minutes of cook time or less, it's such an easy air fryer dinner that feels just slightly more elevated.

You'll love this crusted pistachio salmon

It’s so flavorful. I use Dijon Mustard as the "glue" to make sure the pistachios stick to the salmon, and that plus the garlic adds the perfect bit of flavor to complement the salmon and crunchy pistachio crust. For being only 4 ingredients and fool-proof, it packs a lot of flavors through that nutty crust. 

It’s delicious and super nutritious. Salmon itself is so good for you, then add some pistachios on top? It's such an easy delicious and nutritious dinner recipe. Plus, it's such an easy elevated recipe to make for your next dinner party.

It’s done in just 20 minutes, including prep time! This pistachio-crusted salmon couldn't be any easier to put together and cook. It's one of my favorite weeknight dinner recipes. With a few simple preparation steps and some time to let the salmon cook in the air fryer, you have this delicious pistachio salmon.

Ingredients

Dijon Mustard. You can use honey mustard or yellow mustard if you don't have Dijon. That's just the mustard I prefer to use because I love the flavor paired with garlic and the pistachios!

Garlic Powder. I add garlic powder to anything I can and it is always a must when I'm making any protein, like this air fryer salmon.

Chopped Pistachios. You'll want to make sure that your pistachios are finely chopped for the crust. It makes it easier to stick and gives it a better crust texture when it is cooked. I recommend using a food processor, but if you want a crunchier pistachio mixture, place them in a plastic bag and break them down using a rolling pin. 

Salmon. I like buying the BBQ Filets for myself, it is the perfect serving. If you're making this for a larger crowd, you can totally make this recipe with a larger salmon filet, so long as it fits in your air fryer.

Salt and Black Pepper. If you buy salted pistachios, I recommend not​ using salt. 

Tip:​ Although they may be more expensive, for the sake of your sanity, I recommend buying shelled pistachios. 

How to make this crusted pistachio salmon in the air fryer

This is one of, if not my absolute favorite salmon dish. It's such a delicious recipe you will absolutely include this in your regular dinner rotation. 

1. Take your salmon filets out of the packaging and pat it dry using a paper towel. This will help with any fishy taste.
2. If your salmon isn't fillet, You can keep it whole or slice it into the size of filets you prefer. 
3. Using a spoon or a brush, rub ½ teaspoon dijon mustard across the salmon filets.
4. In a small bowl, mix together your chopped pistachios, garlic, salt, and pepper. 
5. Using a spoon, spread the pistachio mixture onto the salmon fillets. 
6. Set the prepped salmon aside and preheat your air fryer to 390F. If your air fryer doesn't have a preheat setting, set it to 390F and let it run for 5 minutes.
7. Spray your basket with nonstick spray. Place salmon skin side down.
8. Air fry for anywhere from 9-12 minutes depending on how you like your salmon cooked. 
9. Let it cool for about 5 minutes and enjoy!

Tip: If you want to use a meat thermometer, I recommend cooking the salmon to an internal temperature of 145F for that perfect flaky salmon.

how long do you air fry salmon? 

Air fry salmon at 390F for anywhere from 9-12 minutes depending on how you like your salmon done. It's such a quick option if you're looking for healthy recipes. 

can you air fry salmon with the skin on? 

You can! That is the only way I air fry my salmon. Some people like to eat the salmon skin, I am not a fan, I simply peel it off as I eat my salmon filet.

Substitutions and variations

Type of salmon. I always prefer wild-caught salmon, I typically buy Coho salmon from ALDI for any salmon recipe I make. For the best quality, look for wild salmon. 

Lemon zest.​ If you want a bit of fresh citrus flavor in this crusted pistachio salmon recipe, I recommend adding a bit of lemon zest in your pistachio garlic mixture.

Olive oil. If you are worried about your salmon sticking to the air fryer basket, I recommend spraying your air fryer basket with olive oil, or any cooking oil you prefer, while it's preheating. 

Mustard. ​If you don't have dijon, or don't like dijon, I recommend using honey mustard, yellow mustard, or stone ground mustard. 

Storing and reheating

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. To reheat the salmon, air fry it at 350F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. 

What to serve with crusted pistachio salmon

I love serving this with sauteed veggies. I highly recommend sauteeing some asparagus in fresh lemon, garlic, and parmesan cheese. If you want to go the side salad route, this Greek couscous salad, arugula salad, or broccoli salad are all great options for this delicious salmon. 

FAQS

Do you need to preheat the air fryer before cooking?

Yes! Think of it as a preheated oven. For the salmon to cook evenly, you need to preheat your air fryer. This will give you the best salmon. 

Pin it for later!

Want some more easy dinner recipes? 

• Brats in the Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos
• Spicy Chicken Curry with Greek Yogurt
• Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
• Honey Chipotle Salmon