Pesto Salmon

There’s something special about a dish that combines simplicity and elegance, and Pesto Salmon embodies that perfectly. I remember the first time I prepared it—an impromptu dinner for friends after a long week. With the aroma of freshly baked salmon wafting through my kitchen, I knew I was onto something magical. The rich, vibrant green of the pesto provided a striking contrast against the tender, flaky salmon, and each bite was a burst of flavor that left everyone craving more. I love how easy this dish is to prepare yet how impressive it looks on a plate. It’s become a staple in my home, whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Sharing this recipe feels like passing on a cherished family secret—one that brings joy and satisfaction to anyone who tries it.

Main Ingredients for Pesto Salmon

When it comes to creating a memorable meal, the quality of your ingredients plays a vital role. For Pesto Salmon, the ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor. The star of the show is, of course, the salmon, which provides a rich, buttery taste. The prepared pesto elevates the dish with its herbaceous and nutty profile, while Parmesan cheese adds a salty depth that rounds out the flavors perfectly.

• Salmon fillets: 25 ounces of fresh salmon fillets, skin on, provide a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for heart health.
• Prepared pesto: 2 tablespoons of prepared pesto bring a burst of flavor, featuring basil, garlic, and nuts that create a vibrant herbaceous sauce.
• Shredded Parmesan cheese: 2 tablespoons of shredded Parmesan cheese add a savory note with its rich, cheesy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Preparation Steps for Pesto Salmon

Cooking Pesto Salmon is as enjoyable as it is rewarding. You’ll find that each step brings you closer to a dish that is not only delicious but visually stunning. Let’s dive into the simple yet effective steps to bring this meal to life.

1. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. While it’s heating, prepare your salmon. I like to use a paper towel to pat the salmon fillets dry, ensuring a nice sear later on. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing for a better texture.
2. Spritz the basket of your air fryer with olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking. This simple step can make a world of difference in cleanup!
3. Now, take 1 tablespoon of the prepared pesto and spread it generously over the top of each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy—this is where a lot of flavor comes from!
4. Next, sprinkle each fillet with 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a delicious crust as it cooks.
5. Carefully place the salmon in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7 minutes at 400°F. Depending on the thickness of the fillets, you might need to add a few extra minutes, so keep an eye on them.
6. While the salmon is cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F for those who prefer baking. This method will also yield fantastic results.
7. Once the air fryer timer goes off, check the salmon for flakiness. If it flakes easily with a fork, it’s done! If not, give it another couple of minutes.
8. If you’re baking, spritz a small sheet pan with olive oil, then repeat the pesto and cheese topping on the salmon before placing it in the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping in mind the thickness of the fillets.
9. Once your Pesto Salmon is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer or oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist, tender fish.
10. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top for a zing that complements the rich flavors. Serve immediately and enjoy your masterpiece!

Make It Your Own

There are countless ways to personalize Pesto Salmon. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own! Here are some tips to consider:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked Pesto Salmon for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to mix different herbs into your pesto, such as cilantro or parsley, to change the flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Try using the same pesto topping on vegetables like zucchini or eggplant and roast them for a delicious vegetarian option.

Perfect Matches for Pesto Salmon

When it comes to serving Pesto Salmon, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal even further. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Roasted Asparagus: The slight char from roasting enhances the flavor, and the green color makes for a beautiful plate alongside the salmon.
• Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with cherry tomatoes and feta adds a refreshing touch and balances the richness of the salmon.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic pair wonderfully, soaking up the juices of the fish.
• White Wine: A glass of crisp white wine can complement the flavors of the Pesto Salmon and makes for a sophisticated dining experience.
• Spring Greens: A fresh salad with spring greens topped with a lemon vinaigrette provides a bright contrast to the rich salmon.
• Seasonal Fruit: Fresh fruit, such as berries or citrus, can be a delightful side, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

Pesto Salmon is a truly delightful dish that combines rich flavors with simplicity, making it a go-to in my kitchen. I encourage you to give it a try; it’s bound to impress anyone who sits at your table. Not only will you enjoy the process of making it, but the results will leave you and your loved ones craving more.

Pesto Salmon

The ultimate comfort food, Pesto Salmon is a rich and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory flavor and quick preparation, it's ideal for a weeknight dinner. Treat yourself to this delightful meal tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 8 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Sheet Pan

Ingredients

  

• 25 ounces Salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons Prepared pesto
• 2 tablespoons Shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

• Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. While it’s heating, prepare your salmon. I like to use a paper towel to pat the salmon fillets dry, ensuring a nice sear later on. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing for a better texture.
• Spritz the basket of your air fryer with olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking. This simple step can make a world of difference in cleanup!
• Now, take 1 tablespoon of the prepared pesto and spread it generously over the top of each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy—this is where a lot of flavor comes from!
• Next, sprinkle each fillet with 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a delicious crust as it cooks.
• Carefully place the salmon in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7 minutes at 400°F. Depending on the thickness of the fillets, you might need to add a few extra minutes, so keep an eye on them.
• While the salmon is cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F for those who prefer baking. This method will also yield fantastic results.
• Once the air fryer timer goes off, check the salmon for flakiness. If it flakes easily with a fork, it's done! If not, give it another couple of minutes.
• If you’re baking, spritz a small sheet pan with olive oil, then repeat the pesto and cheese topping on the salmon before placing it in the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping in mind the thickness of the fillets.
• Once your Pesto Salmon is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer or oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist, tender fish.
• Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top for a zing that complements the rich flavors. Serve immediately and enjoy your masterpiece!

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked Pesto Salmon for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to mix different herbs into your pesto, such as cilantro or parsley, to change the flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Try using the same pesto topping on vegetables like zucchini or eggplant and roast them for a delicious vegetarian option.

Keyword Easy Salmon Dish, Healthy Salmon Recipes, Pesto Salmon Recipe, Quick Dinner Ideas

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!