Easy Pesto Salmon Recipe

ByDave Simpson

Creating a dish that’s equally delicious and incredibly simple to prepare brings a certain joy. That’s why I love my Easy Pesto Salmon recipe.

It features a few high-quality ingredients and requires minimal effort. Yet, it delivers vibrant flavors alongside a meal that’s rich in nutritional benefits.

Fresh salmon fillets serve as the centerpiece, showcasing the heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids the fish provides. Basil, courtesy of pesto, rounds out the dish.

Pesto also brings notes of pine nuts, highlighting another ingredient in the dish that is far from a filler. And don’t forget that fresh salmon makes for a beautifully presented dish.

I believe you will enjoy how pesto, whether store-bought or homemade, complements the natural richness of the salmon. A small amount of olive oil helps keep the fillets moist while they cook, and a sprinkle of salt and some freshly ground black pepper enhances the taste of the dish.

To brighten it up, I love serving the salmon with lemon wedges; the citrus adds a lovely hint of freshness. This recipe is a shining example of how to keep things simple while still delivering big flavors.

It’s a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This is a delicious, nutritious way to eat.

And the best part? It comes together in a snap.

Ingredients photo for Easy Pesto Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Easy Pesto Salmon Recipe

Salmon serves as a concentrated supply of omega-3 fatty acids that foster cardiovascular wellness.

Pesto is a mixture of essentially basil, garlic, and nuts—flavorful, concentrated, antioxidant-rich stuff.

Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats.

These nutrients provide significant support to the skin and heart.

Adds a refreshing zest, high in vitamin; enhances the absorption of nutrients.

Ingredient Quantities

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)

  • 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt to taste

  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C). A baking sheet should be prepared by lining it with parchment paper or by lightly greasing it with olive oil.

2. Position the salmon fillets on the baking sheet that you’ve prepared, making sure to put them skin-side down if the skin is still attached.

3. Pour the olive oil in a thin stream over the surface of the salmon fillets, and then use a brush or your fingers to spread it evenly over the surface.

4. To taste, season the salmon with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

5. Apply about 2 tablespoons of pesto to each salmon fillet, ensuring they are well-covered.

6. Put the baking sheet in the oven that has been preheated to the desired temperature.

7. Cook in an oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is done all the way through and can be pulled apart with a fork.

8. Enable the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes if you want a golden, bubbly top on the pesto.

9. Take the salmon out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

10. Present the salmon fillets alongside lemon wedges for squeezing on just before eating, if you like that sort of thing. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper or brush for oiling
4. Measuring spoons
5. Brush or fingers for spreading olive oil
6. Salt grinder or shaker
7. Pepper grinder
8. Tablespoon (for measuring pesto)
9. Fork (to check doneness)

FAQ

  • Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

    Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

  • Can I make my own pesto for this recipe?Certainly! You can elevate the freshness of your dishes with homemade pesto. And if you want to make a condiment that really suits your taste, you can easily adjust the traditional pesto recipe.

  • How can I tell when the salmon is cooked through?When a fork is used, the salmon will flake off easily when it is fully cooked. The internal temperature of the salmon must reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit or 63 degrees Celsius to be considered done.

  • Is it possible to grill the salmon instead of baking it?Certainly, grilling serves as an excellent alternative. Simply preheat the grill and prepare the salmon in the following way: Cook it for around 5 to 7 minutes on one side, then flip it and do the same for the other side.

  • Can I substitute another type of fish for salmon?Certainly, you can use other fish such as trout or cod; however, cooking times might differ depending on how thick the fillets are.

  • What sides pair well with pesto salmon?Think about offering it alongside a straightforward green salad, some roasted vegetables, or pasta to round out the meal.

  • Can I prepare the salmon in advance?For optimal flavor, bake or grill the fillets fresh; you can marinate them in pesto for a few hours in the refrigerator, but it’s not necessary.

Substitutions and Variations

Fillets of salmon: May be replaced with fillets of trout or tilapia, which have a less intense flavor.
Pesto: Consider using sun-dried tomato pesto or chimichurri sauce instead, for a different flavor profile.
Olive oil: Use avocado oil or melted butter to replace it for flavor that is slightly richer or nuttier.
Salt: Utilize sea salt or kosher salt to achieve an imperceptible change in texture and taste.
Lemon slices: Use lime slices or drizzle balsamic glaze for a surprising taste.