Pesto Baked Salmon

Pesto Baked Salmon is a simple, flavorful, and elegant dish that combines the rich, buttery taste of salmon with the bright, herbaceous flavor of basil pesto. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, offering a healthy, protein-packed option that is both satisfying and visually appealing. The pesto adds a vibrant green crust while keeping the salmon moist and tender as it bakes, creating a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the fact that it requires minimal ingredients while producing maximum flavor. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan in the pesto pairs beautifully with the natural richness of salmon. The dish is healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, healthy, and packed with flavor. The salmon remains moist and tender while the pesto adds a fresh, herbal punch that elevates the dish. It’s an effortless way to create a restaurant-quality meal at home without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it transforms simple salmon fillets into a gourmet meal with minimal effort. It’s flavorful, visually stunning, and healthy, making it ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. The pesto coating ensures each bite is bursting with flavor while keeping the salmon juicy and tender.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 to 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 to 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian / American

Ingredients

Salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon wedges for serving

Optional Garnish:
Fresh basil leaves
Grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Directions

Spread pesto over salmon fillets, season with salt and pepper, and bake until salmon is cooked through and flaky. Serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat oven to 200°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
Step 2: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if applicable.
Step 4: Spread a generous layer of basil pesto evenly over the top of each fillet.
Step 5: Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the pesto for added richness.
Step 6: Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 9: Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 10: Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.

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How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Pesto Baked Salmon hot as a main course with sides such as roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon for a healthy, elegant meal.

Recipe Tips

Tip: Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor, but high-quality store-bought pesto works well too.
Tip: Do not overbake the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
Tip: Patting the salmon dry ensures the pesto adheres better and the fillet roasts evenly.
Tip: Leftover baked salmon can be flaked into salads or sandwiches for the next day.

Variations

Garlic Herb Pesto: Mix minced garlic and fresh parsley into the pesto for extra aroma.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a tangy, slightly sweet flavor twist.
Creamy Pesto Salmon: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese under the pesto for extra creaminess.
Lemon Zest Pesto: Add lemon zest to the pesto before spreading for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Spicy Pesto: Add red pepper flakes to the pesto for a touch of heat.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Freezing: Raw salmon with pesto can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Special Equipment Needed

Baking sheet
Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Basting brush (optional)
Measuring spoons
Oven

Conclusion

Pesto Baked Salmon is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that elevates ordinary salmon fillets into a gourmet meal. With tender, flaky fish coated in vibrant basil pesto, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or a light yet satisfying meal. Easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with fresh flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home cooking repertoire.