Pesto Salmon Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with dinner all over again: this Pesto Salmon Recipe is the perfect marriage of bold Italian flavors and melt-in-your-mouth seafood. Imagine juicy salmon fillets blanketed in vibrant, herby pesto, roasted to tender perfection, and finished with a burst of juicy cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of Parmesan. The aroma alone is enough to gather everyone in the kitchen! Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free weeknight meal or a showstopping centerpiece for guests, this dish delivers on all fronts—amazing taste, beautiful color, and minimal prep. If you’ve been searching for a way to jazz up your salmon routine, this Pesto Salmon Recipe is about to become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients can transform into something so special. Each component of this Pesto Salmon Recipe plays a key role, bringing flavor, color, and texture to every bite. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each is essential:
- Salmon fillets: The star of the show—choose fresh, firm fillets for the best results and rich, buttery flavor.
- Olive oil: A light drizzle keeps the fish moist and helps the seasonings and pesto cling beautifully.
- Salt: Just enough to enhance all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning profile.
- Basil pesto: The heart of this dish—with its garlicky, nutty, and herbal notes, it infuses the salmon with irresistible Italian flair.
- Cherry tomatoes: Roasted alongside the salmon, these add a pop of color and juicy sweetness to every forkful.
- Parmesan cheese: A final sprinkle for savory depth and a hint of golden crispiness.
- Fresh basil leaves: Not just a garnish, these freshen up every bite and make the dish look absolutely gorgeous.
How to Make Pesto Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking, but also makes cleanup a total breeze. The parchment also helps the salmon cook evenly, so every fillet turns out perfectly moist and tender.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels to help the olive oil and seasonings adhere. Drizzle each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over the top. This quick prep step enhances the natural flavor of the salmon and sets the stage for that delicious pesto topping.
Step 3: Add the Pesto and Tomatoes
Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon about two tablespoons of basil pesto over each fillet, using the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. Then, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and between the fillets for bursts of sweetness and color.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The pesto will bubble and perfume your kitchen, while the tomatoes soften and release their juices, mingling with the fish.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Basil
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the hot salmon with grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts slightly on contact, adding a salty, nutty finish. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves for a final flourish of aroma and color.
How to Serve Pesto Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of torn fresh basil leaves scattered over the top is a must for this Pesto Salmon Recipe, adding a burst of color and that classic herbal aroma. If you’d like, a few extra shavings of Parmesan or even a drizzle of good olive oil can make each plate feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This salmon is incredibly versatile! Pair it with roasted vegetables for a hearty, wholesome meal, or serve it alongside a simple green salad for something lighter. Creamy pasta or fluffy quinoa also soak up that delicious pesto and tomato juice, making every bite extra satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and serve over crostini for an elegant appetizer. You can also flake the salmon and toss it with warm pasta, or layer it onto a grain bowl with your favorite veggies for a colorful, modern presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, let the salmon cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making tomorrow’s lunch just as delicious as dinner!
Freezing
To freeze this Pesto Salmon Recipe, wrap cooled fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
For the juiciest results, reheat the salmon gently in a 300°F oven until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the fish. Add a fresh spoonful of pesto or a squeeze of lemon to revive the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto brings even more vibrant, fresh flavor to the Pesto Salmon Recipe. If you have a favorite recipe or a garden full of basil, go for it—just make sure it’s not too runny so it stays put on the salmon.
What other types of fish can I use?
While salmon is classic, you can also use firm white fish like cod, halibut, or trout. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since thinner fillets may bake faster.
Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?
Definitely! For a grilled version of this Pesto Salmon Recipe, cook the fillets over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes per side. Top with pesto just before serving to keep the herbs bright and flavorful.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Pesto Salmon Recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as your pesto and Parmesan cheese are certified gluten-free. It’s perfect for anyone following a gluten-free or pescatarian diet.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
The best way is to check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe and delicious results!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s big on flavor but short on effort, this Pesto Salmon Recipe is truly a keeper. It’s a dish that makes any night feel a little more special, and it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen!
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Pesto Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Pesto Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets topped with vibrant basil pesto, roasted cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick, healthy, and flavorful Italian-inspired main course perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pesto Topping
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Season the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to help the olive oil and seasonings stick better. Drizzle the fillets with olive oil, then season each with salt and black pepper evenly.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking and a crispy skin.
- Add pesto and tomatoes: Spread approximately 2 tablespoons of prepared basil pesto over each salmon fillet, coating the top evenly. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the salmon on the baking sheet.
- Bake the salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the flesh flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the salmon from the oven and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over each fillet. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.
Notes
- This salmon pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- For a grilled version, cook the salmon on medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes per side and top with pesto just before serving for a smoky flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (6 ounces)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 37 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
