Baked Salmon with Pesto

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true weeknight hero—minimal prep, quick cooking time, and only a few ingredients, yet it tastes like something from a fine dining restaurant. The pesto adds a fresh, vibrant flavor, while baking the salmon keeps it moist and tender. It’s naturally gluten-free, full of healthy omega-3s, and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets
• Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil
• Lemon (sliced or juiced)
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet.
4. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Spread a generous spoonful of pesto over each fillet.
6. Top with lemon slices or squeeze lemon juice over the pesto.
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
8. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes

Variations

• Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a deeper, slightly tangy flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking for extra richness.
• Try with trout or cod instead of salmon.
• Mix pesto with a little Greek yogurt for a creamier topping.
• Add cherry tomatoes or asparagus to the baking sheet for a built-in side dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or enjoy cold over a salad. Not recommended for freezing, as pesto can lose its fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this with frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before adding pesto.

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Yes, grill over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side, adding pesto after cooking to prevent burning.

Should I remove the salmon skin?

You can leave it on for baking—it helps keep the fish moist.

Can I make homemade pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely, fresh pesto will give you the best flavor.

How do I know when salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use different fish?

Yes, halibut, cod, or trout work well.

Does the pesto burn in the oven?

No, the moisture in the fish helps keep it from burning, but avoid overbaking.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free pesto.

What sides go best with baked salmon and pesto?

Roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad pair perfectly.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salmon with pesto and refrigerate it for up to 6 hours before baking.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon with Pesto is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special dinners. With minimal effort and maximum taste, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant flavors paired with rich, tender salmon.

Baked Salmon with Pesto

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Tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection and topped with fragrant basil pesto, creating a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed meal ready in under 20 minutes.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1. 4 salmon fillets
2. 4 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
3. 1 tbsp olive oil
4. 1 lemon (sliced or juiced)
5. Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread 1 tbsp of pesto over each fillet.
5. Top with lemon slices or squeeze lemon juice over the pesto.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Notes

1. For the best flavor, use fresh homemade pesto.
2. Do not overbake salmon—check for doneness at 12 minutes.
3. Use dairy-free pesto for a lactose-free option.
4. Add vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet for a complete meal.
5. Parmesan can be sprinkled on top before baking for extra richness.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg