Print

Pesto salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the rich, buttery flavor of oven-baked salmon with the fresh, herbaceous notes of pesto.

This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests.

The vibrant green pesto not only adds a burst of flavor but also a beautiful visual contrast against the perfectly cooked salmon.

Let’s make this delicious and easy recipe!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup prepared pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven (5 minutes):
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the salmon (5 minutes):
    • Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down if they have skin.
    • Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon fillets and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Bake the salmon (12-15 minutes):
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  4. Add the pesto (2 minutes):
    • Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Just before serving, spoon a generous amount of pesto over each salmon fillet.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the pesto salmon immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

For a complete meal, serve the pesto salmon with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad. If you prefer a bit of extra flavor, you can marinate the salmon in a small amount of pesto for 30 minutes before baking.

This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy nights or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and simplicity of this pesto salmon!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition