Baked Pesto Salmon: A 20-Minute Weeknight Wonder

ByEmma

If you’re craving a dish that’s both elegant and effortless, this Baked Pesto Salmon is your go-to. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can serve up a meal that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress.

Contents

🧂 Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on
  • ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Optional: Lemon wedges, for serving

🔪 Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
  3. Season: Lightly season each fillet with salt and pepper.
  4. Add Pesto: Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of pesto over each fillet, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
  5. Optional – Add Tomatoes: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the salmon on the baking sheet.
  6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
  • Homemade Pesto: If time allows, making your own pesto can elevate the dish. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to taste.
  • Even Cooking: Ensure all fillets are of similar thickness to promote even cooking.
  • Check Doneness: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This Baked Pesto Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

  • Roasted Vegetables: Think asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
  • Grain Salads: A quinoa or couscous salad with fresh herbs complements the flavors well.
  • Simple Green Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette keeps things fresh.

📝 Final Thoughts

This Baked Pesto Salmon is a testament to the idea that simplicity can lead to sophistication. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or seeking a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The harmonious blend of rich salmon and aromatic pesto is sure to make it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

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