Description
This Baked Pesto Salmon features tender salmon fillets topped with vibrant homemade basil pesto and baked until perfectly flaky. Ready in under 30 minutes, this healthy and flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. The fresh pesto keeps the salmon incredibly moist while adding bright, herbaceous flavor
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (4–6 ounces each)
- Salt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Homemade Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (or substitute walnuts/almonds)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional if dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Lemon wedges
- Extra fresh herbs (parsley or basil)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is the sweet spot — hot enough to cook the salmon through without drying it out.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Place your salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the fillets and season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Quick tip: Pat your salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the pesto stick better and gives you a better texture!
In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse a few times to break everything down.
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the 1/2 cup of olive oil through the feed tube. Process until the pesto is smooth but still has a bit of texture — you don’t want it completely liquified! Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes I add an extra squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Using a spoon or spatula, spread a generous layer of pesto over the top of each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy here — really coat the top! The pesto will create a flavorful crust and keep the salmon incredibly moist as it bakes.
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. The internal temperature should reach 145°F if you want to check with a meat thermometer.
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for just a minute or two. Transfer to plates, garnish with fresh lemon wedges and extra herbs if you like, and serve immediately while it’s hot and beautiful!
Notes
- Uniform fillets: Try to choose salmon fillets that are similar in thickness so they all cook at the same rate.
- Test for doneness: Insert a fork into the thickest part and gently twist. If it flakes easily and looks opaque, it’s ready!
- Broil at the end (optional): For an extra golden, slightly crispy top, turn your broiler on high during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking. Watch it closely!
- Save that pesto oil: If your pesto separates a bit on the baking sheet, don’t throw away that herby oil! Drizzle it over your sides or save it for dipping bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American