Pesto Salmon
Pesto Salmon is an easy, delicious and high protein meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Made with my Avocado Oil Pesto, it keeps things fresh and full of flavor. This baked salmon pairs perfectly with roasted veggies, brown rice, or readers favorites like Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes or Whole30 Mashed Potatoes.
Pesto on salmon could not be any easier. All you have to do is brush the salmon with either homemade or store-bought pesto. For this version, I use an all spinach pesto made with avocado oil.
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Why this recipe works
- Easy to customize: Use your store-bought pesto to save time or make your own. Pair with your favorites, veggies, rice or pasta.
- Done in under 30 Minutes: Just like my Middle Eastern Salmon, Salmon with Lemon and Dill, Honey Mustard Salmon and Almond Crusted Cod, this fish dinner comes together in no time!
- Nutritious and meal prep friendly: Salmon is a quality protein and Avocado Oil Pesto keeps things light. Plus this salmon recipe reheats well making delicious leftovers.
Ingredients you’ll need
- Atlantic Salmon. Whole or filets. I like to get my salmon from Trader Joe’s. The skin and bones are already removed. But skin on works as well.
- Avocado Oil Pesto or store bought. You will need a 1/2 cup.
- Optional garnishes: Lemon slices and fresh parmesan cheese.
How to make Pesto Salmon
Step One: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
Step Two: Place the salmon onto the sheet pan and brush with the pesto.
Step Three: Bake for 15 minutes or until opaque and flaky. Garnish with optional lemon slices and fresh shredded parmesan before serving.
Storing and reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Helpful tips for this Pesto Salmon Recipe
- Check for doneness at the 15 minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Leave the salmon whole or cut into individual pieces.
- Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the salmon.
- Use homemade or store- bought pesto. If using store-bought, brush the fish lightly with olive oil first.
- This can be prepared on the grill using foil or an in airfryer.
What to serve with Pesto Salmon
Pesto with Salmon can be served with so many different dishes.
- Try it with your favorite roasted vegetables.
- On top of your favorite salad.
- With a side of creamy pasta.
- Brown or white rice, quinoa or orzo.
- Roasted potatoes such as Roasted Red Potatoes and Broccoli and Za’atar Potatoes or Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes or Rosemary Sweet Potato Mash.
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Pesto Salmon (Done in 30 Minutes)
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon whole or filets
- 1/2 cup pesto homemade or store bought
Avocado Oil Pesto
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup raw cashews unsalted
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan
- 2/3 cup fresh spinach
- 3/4 cup avocado oil
- kosher salt as needed about 3/4 teaspoon
- black pepper as needed
- lemon slices optional garnish
- fresh parmesan cheese optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon onto the sheet pan and brush with the pesto.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until opaque and flaky. Garnish with optional lemon slices and fresh shredded parmesan before serving.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Helpful tips:
- Check for doneness at the 15 minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Leave the salmon whole or cut into individual pieces.
- Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the salmon.
- You will 1/2 cup of pesto- homemade or store- bought. If using store-bought, brush the fish lightly with olive oil first.
- This can be prepared on the grill using foil or an in airfryer.
Nutrition
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