Pan Fried Salmon with Macadamia Arugula Pesto
Pan Fried Salmon with Macadamia Arugula Pesto is an elegant, nutrient-rich dish featuring crispy salmon fillets topped with a bold and peppery arugula pesto made with macadamia nuts. It’s quick to prepare, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: undefined
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Fry
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
[object Object]
Instructions
**Make the Pesto:** In a food processor, combine arugula, macadamia nuts, garlic, parmesan (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.,With the processor running, slowly stream in olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning. Set aside.,**Prepare the Salmon:** Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.,**Pan Fry the Salmon:** Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy and salmon releases easily.,Flip and cook the other side for 2–3 minutes until just cooked through (internal temp: 145°F).,**Serve:** Plate salmon and top generously with pesto. Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.
Notes
Use leftover pesto as a sandwich spread, salad dressing, or pasta sauce.,To make it dairy-free, omit parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.,Swap arugula with spinach, basil, or kale if desired.,If using thicker salmon fillets, sear and finish in a 400°F oven for 5–7 minutes.,For extra crunch, top with chopped macadamia nuts before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with pesto
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
