Pesto Salmon is a deliciously simple dish that combines the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with the fresh, herbaceous notes of pesto. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive main course for a dinner party. The vibrant green pesto not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the salmon’s natural flavors with a burst of basil, garlic, and Parmesan. Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pesto:
- In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly add 1/4 cup of olive oil and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets, skin-side down, in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Bake the Salmon:
- Remove the skillet from heat and spread a generous amount of pesto over the top of each salmon fillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve:
- Serve the pesto salmon hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy with your choice of sides!
This Pesto Salmon recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
