Pesto Salmon

Pesto Salmon

Pesto Salmon is a dish that perfectly balances rich, flaky salmon with the aromatic and herby flavors of pesto. This recipe is simple yet elegant, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Packed with heart-healthy omega-3s from the salmon and fresh, vibrant notes from the pesto, it’s a nutritious and delicious meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or looking to incorporate more fish into your diet, this Pesto Salmon recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Pesto Sauce:

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed

1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts as a substitute)

2 garlic cloves

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Juice of half a lemon (optional, for added freshness)

Optional Garnish:

Cherry tomatoes, halved

Fresh basil leaves

How to Make Pesto Salmon

Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Make the Pesto:

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until a smooth consistency is achieved. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Set aside.

Prepare the Salmon:

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and season generously with salt and black pepper.

Add the Pesto:

Spread a generous layer of pesto over the top of each salmon fillet. You can reserve some pesto for drizzling over the dish later or serving on the side.

Bake the Salmon:

Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with cherry tomato halves and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or garlic bread.

Chef’s Note

You can use store-bought pesto for convenience, but making your own fresh pesto elevates the dish with vibrant flavors.

If you prefer a crispier top, broil the salmon for the last 2 minutes of cooking.

For a dairy-free option, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 380

Protein: 30g

Carbohydrates: 3g

Fat: 27g

Fiber: 1g

Sodium: 200mg

Conclusion

Pesto Salmon is a quick and healthy recipe that offers a gourmet experience without the hassle. The combination of tender salmon and fresh pesto is simply irresistible. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Enjoy this dish as part of your regular meal rotation or impress your guests at the dinner table!