Easy Pesto Salmon
Ever had one of those days where the fridge looks like it’s auditioning for a minimalist art show, and you just can’t bear the thought of another takeout dinner? Enter Easy Pesto Salmon. It’s that magical dish that feels both fancy and effortless, like it casually strolled out of a coastal bistro. With just the right amount of pesto-y goodness to make you feel like a culinary genius, this dish is a weeknight savior.
Honestly, I stumbled upon this recipe on a night when my husband was craving something special, but I was craving my couch. Thank goodness Easy Pesto Salmon doesn’t demand a Michelin-star effort. Our little family has definitely stamped this one with the “keeper” sign. Every time it’s on the menu, it’s like an instant family celebration—no birthdays or graduations needed.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Pesto Salmon
– Minimal cleanup—who wants more than one pan to wash?
– It’s a 30-minute miracle, fitting snugly between “work was insane” and “I need sleep.”
– Pesto plus salmon is like an edible hug. You’ll taste what I mean.
– Top-tier impress-your-guests level but requires less skill than making toast.
This Easy Pesto Salmon was a total hit with my whole family—even my picky eater asked for seconds! The pesto adds such a fresh, herby flavor and the salmon came out perfectly tender. It’s now in our weeknight dinner rotation for sure!
This Easy Pesto Salmon was a hit with my whole family—even the picky eaters! The pesto adds such a fresh, flavorful twist, and I loved how quick it was to prepare on a busy weeknight. We'll definitely be making this again soon!
How to Make It
Alright, so imagine you’re basically hosting a tiny, personal cooking show with no audience—a place where shouting at forgotten timers is encouraged. The key here? Don’t overthink it. Grab some salmon fillets, spread that jarred or homemade pesto like you’re buttering toast, and slide them into a pre-heated 400°F oven. Let Mr. Oven do the heavy lifting for around 15 minutes. Meanwhile, throw together a quick salad or some roasted veggies. That’s it. Seriously.
Ingredient Notes
– Salmon: Fresh is best, but I’ve used frozen (just defrost it first!). It still shines through and saves a grocery trip.
– Pesto: Whether homemade or from the jar, it adds the zing. Oh, and don’t skimp here.
– Lemon: A last-minute squeeze of lemon will make it sing. Just once I forgot it, and I surely noticed.
Recipe Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (because hot makes salmon perfect).
2. Place salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet.
3. Slather pesto over each fillet; no need to be tidy.
4. Pop in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes.
5. Check doneness by flaking with a fork. If it flakes easily, it’s primo.
6. Squeeze lemon over top for that final flourish.
What to Serve It With
– A crisp green salad with some nuts for crunch.
– Roasted potatoes because carbs are happiness.
– Steamed asparagus spears for that little green health nudge.
Tips & Mistakes
– Watch that cooking time. Overdone salmon is sad salmon.
– No pesto? Try garlic butter or a honey-mustard glaze. We’re all about flexibility here.
Storage Tips
Leftovers? Just tuck those in an airtight container and chill them in the fridge for 2-3 days. Pro tip: Cold salmon over a salad the next day makes a killer work-from-home lunch.
Variations and Substitutions
– No salmon? Go for trout or even chicken.
– Want more crunch? Toss on some pine nuts before baking.
– Out of pesto? Try a mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Improvisation is the spice of kitchen life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Remember it later
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Easy Pesto Salmon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 fillets salmon fillets
- 0.5 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet skin-side down.
- Brush the salmon with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
- Spread a generous layer of basil pesto evenly over each salmon fillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Notes
Featured Comments
“Made this last night and it was absolutely loved. Loved how the flavorful came together.”
“New favorite here — will make again. fizzy was spot on.”
“New favorite here — turned out amazing. warm hug was spot on.”
“Super easy and will make again! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Super easy and family favorite! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“New favorite here — family favorite. flavorful was spot on.”
“Super easy and so flavorful! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and turned out amazing results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“New favorite here — so flavorful. nourishing was spot on.”
“Made this last night and it was will make again. Loved how the flavorful came together.”
