Air-Fryer Almond Pesto Crusted Salmon
This air fryer salmon recipe incorporates an abundance of fresh and vibrant ingredients, and comes together in less than 30 minutes. Not only is this dish mouth-watering, but it is packed with nutrient dense ingredients which provide heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein and vitamins and minerals.
Salmon is commonly consumed as part of the Mediterranean Diet, which comes as no surprise considering that this way of eating focuses on whole foods with good amounts of healthy fats. It is recommended to eat fish (such as salmon) at least twice per week to reap all the health benefits.
Pair the salmon with roasted greens and roasted root vegetables for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredient Highlights
Salmon: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are classified as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). It is essential that you consume omega 3’s in the diet because our bodies are unable to synthesize the amount we need to survive. Salmon provides a specific type of omega-3’s called DHA. When consuming omega-3’s through the diet, they have been shown to support heart health, lower the risk for cardiovascular disease, regulate blood pressure, and have anti-inflammatory properties [i, ii, iii].
Almonds: A nutrient dense tree nut that boasts an impressive amount of Vitamin E, protein, healthy fats (particularly monounsaturated fats), fiber, calcium, and magnesium. One ounce (about ¼ cup) provides 6 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber. Almonds are a great source of phytonutrients, which play a key role in fighting inflammation and disease in the body. Almonds also have an antioxidant effect. Almond consumption has been suggested to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance, and may improve gut health (thanks to its high fiber content) [iv, v].
