Pesto Salmon : Juicy, flaky salmon is coated in a layer of basil pesto, bursting with flavors, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Pair it with roasted veggies or a light pasta for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: With just a handful of ingredients, pesto salmon is ready in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, while pesto adds a dose of antioxidants and healthy fats.
- Versatile: Works for casual dinners, meal prep, or elegant gatherings.
- Customizable: Endless variations allow you to adapt the recipe to your preferences.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Pesto Salmon
- Choose Quality Salmon: Wild-caught salmon has a more robust flavor compared to farmed salmon.
- Use Homemade Pesto: A simple blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil makes a world of difference.
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Removing excess moisture helps the pesto adhere and prevents soggy fish.
- Don’t Overcook: Bake the salmon just until it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for a golden crust.
Variations to Try
Keto-Friendly Pesto Salmon : Skip breadcrumbs and serve with roasted zucchini or cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.
Pesto-Crusted Salmon : Mix pesto with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy baked topping.
Dairy-Free Pesto Salmon : Use a dairy-free pesto made with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Grilled Pesto Salmon : Grill the salmon for a smoky flavor and brush with pesto right before serving.
One-Pan Pesto Salmon and Veggies : Add veggies like asparagus, bell peppers, or broccoli to the baking dish for a complete meal.
How to Serve Pesto Salmon
- Over Pasta: Toss spaghetti or linguine with extra pesto and serve salmon on top.
- With a Salad: Pair it with a fresh arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- On a Bed of Rice: Fluffy basmati or wild rice complement the flavors beautifully.
- As a Sandwich: Use the salmon to create a gourmet sandwich with ciabatta bread, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- In a Wrap: Flake the salmon and wrap it in a tortilla with pesto mayo, lettuce, and veggies.
How to Store and Reheat Pesto Salmon
- Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the salmon in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even baking.
What type of pesto works best?
Traditional basil pesto is classic, but feel free to experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a twist.
How do I know when salmon is cooked?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon with pesto, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What wine pairs well with pesto salmon?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.
Pesto Salmon
Pesto Salmon : Juicy, flaky salmon is coated in a layer of basil pesto, bursting with flavors, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Pair it with roasted veggies or a light pasta for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon
- 4 oz pesto (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Set your oven to 350°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Prepare the Salmon: Slice the salmon into 2-3” wide portions. - Spread about 1 teaspoon of pesto on each piece.
- Place the salmon on the prepared tray and bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (approximately 12–15 minutes).
- Once out of the oven, add an extra dollop of pesto on top for even more flavor.\
- Serve your pesto salmon over fluffy rice, a vibrant salad, or creamy risotto for an unforgettable meal.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 352Total Fat 25gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 18gCholesterol 71mgSodium 240mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 28g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Pesto salmon is a simple yet sophisticated dish that deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire. With its bold flavors, endless customizations, and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this recipe will leave you with a dish that’s guaranteed to impress.
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