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
Scale
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
