Description
Pesto Salmon is a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner option featuring tender salmon fillets baked with garlic-infused cherry tomatoes and topped with vibrant basil pesto. This healthy American main course is perfect for a simple, nutritious family meal ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Salmon and Vegetables
- 12-16 oz Salmon Fillet (¾-1 pound)
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Seasoning
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¾-1 cup basil pesto (store bought or homemade)
- Fresh lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is hot enough for baking the salmon and tomatoes evenly.
- Prepare Ingredients: Measure out all ingredients carefully. In a small bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes with the minced garlic, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss to mix well and set aside.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on the parchment.
- Season Salmon: Use a basting brush to spread 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top of the salmon. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange Tomatoes: Gently arrange the garlic-seasoned cherry tomatoes around the salmon on the baking sheet.
- Bake Salmon and Tomatoes: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the salmon begins to flake easily with a fork, indicating it is nearly cooked through.
- Add Pesto: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully spoon the pesto sauce over the top of the salmon.
- Continue Baking: Return the salmon to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, just enough to warm the pesto without overcooking the fish.
- Serve: Serve the pesto salmon warm with fresh lemon wedges on the side, pairing nicely with your favorite leafy greens or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Enjoy: Dig in and enjoy the burst of fresh flavors in every bite of this simple, wholesome dinner.
Notes
- Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor, or prepare homemade pesto in advance for a more vibrant taste.
- Adjust the cooking times slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillet to avoid overcooking.
- If you prefer skinless salmon, adjust seasoning and bake the same way, watching carefully to prevent drying.
- Adding lemon wedges at serving brightens the rich flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
- This recipe is easily doubled or halved, just adjust baking times accordingly.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
