Baked Salmon with Pesto is a delightful dish that combines the rich, buttery flavors of perfectly baked salmon with the vibrant, herbaceous notes of pesto. This recipe is not only simple to execute but also elegant enough for a dinner party. The salmon remains moist and flaky while the pesto adds a burst of freshness, making it a dish that appeals to both seafood lovers and those new to fish. Serve this dish alongside your favorite vegetables or a light salad for a wholesome meal that is as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will absolutely adore this Baked Salmon with Pesto for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavor combination is simply divine. The natural richness of the salmon pairs beautifully with the zesty, aromatic pesto, creating a dish that’s both comforting and gourmet. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle, as salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, and the pesto can be made with fresh herbs, providing a nutrient-dense meal that aligns with many dietary preferences.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your Baked Salmon with Pesto turns out perfectly, consider these tips and tricks:
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that have a bright color and firm flesh.
- Room Temperature: Allow the salmon to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Pesto Perfection: Homemade pesto is ideal, but store-bought works too! To make it more flavorful, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes. It typically only takes about 12-15 minutes at 400°F, so you can easily overcook it if you’re not careful.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who like to plan ahead, here are some make-ahead tips:
- Pesto Preparation: You can make pesto up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, covering the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning.
- Marinate the Salmon: If you’re using a marinade, you can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish deeply.
- Veggie Prep: Chop any vegetables you plan to serve alongside the salmon in advance. Most will stay fresh in the fridge for a few days.
Recipe Variations
This Baked Salmon with Pesto recipe is quite versatile:
- Different Proteins: Swap out salmon for other fish such as trout or halibut, or even use chicken breasts for a change.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, use portobello mushrooms instead of salmon and bake them with pesto.
- Seasoning Changes: Try adding lemon zest to the pesto for a citrusy kick or experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans in the pesto for varying flavors.
How to Serve
To serve Baked Salmon with Pesto, place the fillet on a plate and drizzle with any remaining pesto. Pair it with roasted asparagus or a light quinoa salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of pine nuts for added texture and visual appeal. A lemon wedge on the side not only adds color but also allows guests to customize their dish with a splash of brightness.
Pairing Suggestions
For an ideal dining experience, consider these pairings:
- Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the salmon beautifully.
- Cocktails: A refreshing gin and tonic or a light mojito pairs well with the herbaceous notes of the pesto.
- Sides: Serve with garlic roasted potatoes or a fresh arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Desserts: Finish off the meal with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or a fruit tart to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
To store leftovers of Baked Salmon with Pesto:
- Refrigeration: Place any leftover salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals to prevent drying it out.
Equipment Needed
You will need the following kitchen tools:
- Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining and mixing your pesto if making it from scratch.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure the salmon is cooked to the perfect internal temperature.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions, here are some adaptations:
- Vegan: Replace the salmon with a thick slice of eggplant or a portobello mushroom cap, and use a nut-free pesto.
- Dairy-Free: Make your pesto with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to keep it creamy and flavorful.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely in your pesto recipe.
Seasonal Adaptations
Incorporate seasonal ingredients for a fresh twist:
- Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus to the dish for a pop of green and sweetness.
- Summer: Top the salmon with diced heirloom tomatoes for a fresh, summery flavor.
- Fall: Mix pumpkin seeds into the pesto for a seasonal touch, or serve with roasted root vegetables.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking for even cooking.
- What can I substitute for pesto? You can use a store-bought garlic aioli or a simple herb butter.
- How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Can I add cheese on top? Yes! A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can add a delightful creaminess.
How To Make Baked Salmon with Pesto
Baked Salmon with Pesto
Baked Salmon with Pesto is a delightful dish that combines the rich, buttery flavors of perfectly baked salmon with the vibrant, herbaceous notes of pesto.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Pine nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread a generous amount of pesto over each salmon fillet, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve the salmon topped with extra pesto, garnished with fresh basil and pine nuts, alongside lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 843Total Fat 63gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 47gCholesterol 143mgSodium 593mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 2gSugar 5gProtein 58g
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
Baked Salmon with Pesto is a stellar dish that marries flavor, health, and simplicity seamlessly. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a weeknight meal, this recipe is bound to impress. With its versatility and ease, it’s a go-to recipe that you can customize to fit your taste and dietary preferences. Don’t hesitate to dive into this culinary adventure, and enjoy every flaky, herbaceous bite!
