Pesto Salmon
This Pesto Salmon recipe is a delightful combination of fresh, vibrant flavors that come together in a quick and easy meal. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, this dish will impress anyone at your dining table. With the wonderful punch of basil and the richness of salmon, it’s a must-try!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets you can swap these for chicken breasts if you’re not a fish fan
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil pesto or store-bought, no judgment here!
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your Oven: First things first, we need to preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This will make sure our salmon gets nice and flaky.
- Prepare the Salmon: While the oven heats up, grab your salmon fillets and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over them, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cooking tip: Parchment paper makes for an easy cleanup!
- Spread the Pesto: Now, take that delicious pesto and spread a generous layer over each salmon fillet. If you love flavor like I do, don’t hold back!
- Time to Bake: Pop that tray into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 12-15 minutes. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it, as oven times can vary.
- Serve it Up: Once it’s done, take it out and let it rest for a couple of minutes if you can resist! Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top, and voilà! You’ve got a plate of Pesto Salmon ready to impress.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Sugars | 0g |
5 Tips for This Recipe
- Use fresh herbs if you can—they make a big difference!
- Make sure to watch the salmon closely as it cooks.
- Serve with a side of veggies or a salad for a complete meal.
- Feel free to add more garlic or even a hint of chili flakes for some spice!
- Don’t skip the lemon; it really brightens up the dish!
5 FAQs for This Recipe
- Can I use frozen salmon?Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- What can I serve with Pesto Salmon?Any side dish you love! Grilled veggies or rice go great.
- How do I know when the salmon is done?It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Can I use a different type of fish?Absolutely! This recipe works well with trout or tilapia too!
- Is this recipe healthy?Yes! Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
5 Storage Tips
- Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven to retain moisture.
- If freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Never refreeze cooked salmon once it’s been thawed!
5 Common Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the salmon will dry it out! Keep an eye on it.
- Not seasoning enough can make your dish taste flat.
- Using too much pesto can overwhelm the salmon flavor.
- Skipping the resting period after cooking may toughen the fish.
- Not using a meat thermometer to check doneness can lead to undercooked salmon.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! Our delicious Pesto Salmon is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you nail it on your first try like I did, or you face a few bumps along the way, just remember to have fun in the kitchen! This meal is perfect for a family dinner or impressing a friend.
I love how a simple recipe can transform into something so satisfying and delicious. Give it a go, and I promise it’ll quickly become a favorite in your house too!
Happy cooking, everyone! Enjoy your Pesto Salmon adventure!
