Get ready to discover your new favorite go-to weeknight meal! Pesto Salmon is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together rich, flaky salmon and fresh, herby pesto in a symphony of colors and flavors. With minimal prep, just a few ingredients, and a speedy baking time, this recipe delivers a restaurant-worthy meal at your own table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just craving a healthy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Pesto Salmon will never let you down.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Pesto Salmon is how a handful of simple, quality ingredients come together to create a dish that tastes truly special. Each component plays a key role in building flavor—don’t hesitate to use the best you can find!
- Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, center-cut fillets for even cooking and buttery texture.
- Basil pesto: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade pesto really amplifies the fresh, zesty flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and ensures the salmon stays moist and tender as it bakes.
- Lemon: Slices on top infuse the salmon with a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Fresh basil (optional): A vibrant garnish that hints at the robust pesto flavor and adds a pop of color.
How to Make Pesto Salmon
Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even, quick roasting. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup or give it a light brush with olive oil to keep the fillets from sticking. Taking a few minutes here sets you up for stress-free cooking later!
Step 2: Arrange the Salmon Fillets
Lay the salmon fillets skin-side down on your prepared baking sheet. This helps the skin crisp up and makes the fillets easy to remove after baking. If your fillets have pin bones, it’s worth removing them now for the best dining experience.
Step 3: Season
Sprinkle each salmon fillet with salt and pepper. Seasoning directly on the fish enhances the natural flavors and complements the herby pesto you’ll add next.
Step 4: Add the Pesto Topping
Now, here’s where the magic of Pesto Salmon truly happens. Spread about 2 tablespoons of basil pesto evenly over each fillet. Don’t be shy—make sure each piece gets a generous blanket of that fragrant, green goodness. The pesto not only flavors the fish but also keeps it extra moist.
Step 5: Drizzle and Top with Lemon
Drizzle a little olive oil on top for that glistening finish, then top each fillet with a slice or two of lemon. The citrus perfumes the salmon and brings out the bright notes in the pesto.
Step 6: Bake
Pop the baking sheet into your hot oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is juicy in the middle. Be careful not to overbake; you want it tender and succulent.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle on fresh basil leaves if you like for a final fresh flourish. Serve your Pesto Salmon immediately while it’s still piping hot and fragrant.
How to Serve Pesto Salmon
Garnishes
A little sprinkle of torn fresh basil leaves or a zesting of lemon over the finished dish adds vibrant color and gives an extra kick of freshness. For a touch of elegance, a few toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good olive oil really makes the Pesto Salmon pop on the plate.
Side Dishes
This dish shines with simple sides! Try serving it alongside fluffy steamed rice, a crisp green salad, or garlicky roasted vegetables. The rich flavors of the Pesto Salmon pair perfectly with oven-roasted asparagus, lemony couscous, or even a tangy tomato salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your Pesto Salmon presentation: serve individual fillets over a bed of greens for a light lunch, or flake the fish and toss it into warm pasta for a hearty dinner. For something unique, tuck pieces into a crusty baguette with extra pesto and arugula for an unforgettable sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store cooled Pesto Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s just as delicious cold atop salads as it is gently reheated!
Freezing
While Pesto Salmon can be frozen, keep in mind that the texture of both the salmon and the pesto may be slightly different once thawed. Wrap the fillets well and freeze for up to a month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Pesto Salmon gently in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10–12 minutes, or until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to overcooked, dry fish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Trout works beautifully in place of salmon, or try another firm-fleshed fish like cod or halibut. Adjust the bake time as needed, since thinner fillets may cook faster.
What’s the best way to tell when the Pesto Salmon is cooked perfectly?
Look for the fish to turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. Avoid over-baking—check after 12 minutes, as residual heat will keep it cooking a bit after you pull it out of the oven.
Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?
Definitely! Homemade pesto can take the flavor up a notch. Try a classic basil blend, or experiment with alternatives like arugula or even sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist.
Is Pesto Salmon gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe as written is naturally gluten-free, just make sure your pesto and any sides you serve it with are free from added wheat or gluten-containing fillers.
What are some dairy-free options for pesto?
You can easily make or find pesto without cheese, swapping in nutritional yeast or simply omitting the cheese for a punchy, dairy-free version. Many store-bought pestos now offer vegan or dairy-free options.
Final Thoughts
Pesto Salmon is one of those recipes that delivers big on taste with very little effort, making it perfect for busy nights or special occasions alike. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy and delicious a weeknight meal can be. Bring some color and flavor to your table—you’re going to love it!
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Pesto Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Pesto Salmon recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Tender salmon fillets are topped with basil pesto, lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil, then baked to perfection. Serve with your favorite sides for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Pesto:
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: To 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
- Season salmon: Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet, season with salt and pepper.
- Add pesto: Spread 2 tablespoons of pesto on each fillet.
- Drizzle olive oil: Over the salmon and top with lemon slices.
- Bake: For 12–15 minutes until cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, garnish with basil, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute the salmon with trout or another firm fish.
- For a dairy-free option, use pesto made without cheese.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
