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Three perfectly baked pistachio crusted salmon fillets on a wooden board, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Healthy Crispy Maple Pistachio Salmon

This delightful and healthy salmon recipe features flaky fish coated in a sweet and savory maple-Dijon glaze, topped with crunchy pistachios, then air-fried or baked to crispy perfection. It's a quick and elegant meal perfect for any weeknight or special occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Fusion, Healthy
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 2 fillets salmon 5-6 oz each, skin-on or off
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Maple Pistachio Coating
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup pure
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice fresh
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup pistachios shelled, roughly chopped

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Prepare Salmon
  1. Pat salmon fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
Make Coating
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder until well combined.
Coat Salmon
  1. Place the salmon fillets on a plate or cutting board. Spread the maple-Dijon glaze evenly over the top and sides of each salmon fillet. Press the chopped pistachios onto the glazed side of the salmon, ensuring they adhere well.
Cook (Air Fryer or Oven)
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket or line with a perforated parchment paper liner. Carefully place the salmon fillets, pistachio-side up, in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 10-14 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is flaky and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 145°F/63°C) and the pistachios are golden.
  2. Alternatively, to cook in an oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets, pistachio-side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-16 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is flaky and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 145°F/63°C) and the pistachios are lightly toasted.
Serve
  1. Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer or oven. Serve immediately with your favorite healthy sides like roasted asparagus, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

Notes

For best results, ensure your salmon is completely dry before seasoning and applying the glaze for optimal crispiness. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your salmon fillets and the specific model of your air fryer or oven. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for doneness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the crispiness will diminish.