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Pesto salmon served on a white plate with roasted vegetables and a lemon wedge

Pesto Salmon

A vibrant and healthy main dish featuring tender baked salmon fillets generously topped with a fresh basil pesto. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal served with your favorite side, offering a delicious balance of savory, herbal, and tangy flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course, sead food
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: To hold the salmon during baking.
  • Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients if making pesto from scratch.
  • Food Processor (optional): For quickly blending homemade pesto.
  • Knife & Cutting Board: For slicing garlic, lemon, and any garnish.
  • Measuring Spoons: To accurately measure oil, salt, and other seasonings.
  • Aluminum Foil (optional): For easier cleanup or to cover the dish if needed.

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salmon
  • 4 salmon fillets approximately 6 oz each
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling
  • For the Pesto Use store-bought or make your own
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
  • If Making Homemade Pesto:
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts as an alternative
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Garnish Optional
  • 1 lemon thinly sliced (for garnish and a squeeze of fresh juice)
  • Fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of herbal flavor

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
  • Prepare the Salmon:
  • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
  • Season each fillet generously with salt and pepper.
  • Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over each fillet to help retain moisture during baking.
  • Prepare the Pesto (if making homemade):
  • In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  • Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped.
  • With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  • Assemble:
  • Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the baking dish, skin-side down (if applicable).
  • Spoon a generous layer (about 1/2 cup divided among the fillets) of pesto evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
  • Bake:
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque in the center and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Note: The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
  • Garnish and Serve:
  • Remove the salmon from the oven.
  • Garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon slices.
  • Optionally, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the salmon before serving.
  • Serve immediately with your choice of side, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.
  • Details
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus additional time if making homemade pesto)
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course / Seafood
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, Keto-friendly, Paleo-friendly
  • Keywords
  • Salmon, Pesto, Mediterranean, Baked Salmon, Healthy, Quick Dinner, Seafood, Italian, Pesto Sauce
  • Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (~6 oz)
  • Calories: ~350-400 kcal
  • Sugar: ~1-2 g
  • Sodium: ~500 mg (varies with seasoning and Parmesan)
  • Total Fat: ~25 g
  • Saturated Fat: ~5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~3-4 g
  • Fiber: ~1 g
  • Protein: ~30 g
  • Cholesterol: ~70-80 mg
  • Note: Nutritional values are estimated and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Notes

Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the salmon during baking to ensure it remains moist and tender.
Pesto Prep: Homemade pesto can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customization: Adjust the amount of pesto based on your taste preference—use less for a milder flavor or more for a robust pesto taste.
Garnish Ideas: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and additional basil leaves can brighten the dish right before serving.
Dietary Adaptations: For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese in the pesto or use a dairy-free alternative.
Side Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh mixed greens salad.
Keyword Salmon, Pesto, Mediterranean, Baked Salmon, Healthy, Quick Dinner, Seafood, Italian, Pesto Sauce