This Pesto Butter Salmon is a tasty and easy meal that brings together the rich flavors of salmon and the fresh zing of pesto. It’s ready in just a flash!
I love how the butter melts into the salmon, making it super moist. Serve with some veggies on the side, and you’ve got a dinner everyone will enjoy! 🐟💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon fillets: Fresh salmon is ideal for this dish, but you can also use frozen fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking, as they will cook more evenly that way. Personally, I love using sockeye salmon for its rich flavor!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for this recipe so you can control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. I’ve found that some plant-based butters blend nicely with pesto!
Basil pesto: While store-bought pesto is convenient, homemade pesto adds a personal touch. If you don’t have basil, try using spinach or arugula for a different flavor. I sometimes add a bit of lemon zest to my pesto for extra brightness.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan really enhances the dish. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give you a cheesy flavor. However, if you’re not a fan of Parmesan, some crumbled feta can also work nicely!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon Every Time?
Cooking salmon can feel tricky, but there are some simple tips to ensure it’s cooked perfectly every time. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a preheated skillet; this helps to get a nice sear.
- Sear the skin side first for a crispy texture. Make sure not to move the fillets around too much.
- Cook until you see the color change up the side of the salmon. For medium, it should be slightly pink in the center.
- Use a fork to gently test if it’s flaky. If it flakes easily, it’s done!
And remember, it’s okay if the fish looks slightly undercooked in the center as it will continue to cook after you take it out of the oven. Enjoy your meal!
Pesto Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)
- Optional sides: roasted asparagus and blistered cherry tomatoes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. So, in just about 25 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal on the table—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important to have it hot and ready for the salmon to cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry using paper towels. This step is key to achieving that lovely crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Sear the Salmon:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down into the skillet. Sear them for 3-4 minutes until the skin is nice and crispy.
4. Flip and Cook:
Using a spatula, gently flip the salmon fillets over and cook for another 2 minutes. This will help them cook through without overcooking the delicate flesh.
5. Mix the Pesto Butter:
While the salmon is cooking, take a small bowl and mix the softened butter with the basil pesto until well combined. This flavorful mixture is what will make the dish stand out!
6. Add the Pesto Butter:
Spoon the pesto butter mixture generously over each salmon fillet, making sure they are well coated. This will add a rich flavor and keep the fish moist as it bakes.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan:
Top the salmon with the grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a nice salty, cheesy touch that goes perfectly with the pesto.
8. Bake in the Oven:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven! Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and easily flakes when tested with a fork.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the salmon for a fresh touch. Serve with lemon slices on the side for a delicious squeeze over the top!
10. Optional Sides:
If you’d like, pair your salmon with some roasted asparagus and blistered cherry tomatoes for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy your delightful Pesto Butter Salmon with family or friends!
This dish is not only easy to make but also looks beautiful on the plate. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw the fillets completely before cooking them. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Pesto?
If you don’t have pesto, you can make a quick alternative by blending fresh herbs (like spinach or arugula), garlic, nuts, and olive oil. You can also use a store-bought sun-dried tomato spread for a different flavor profile!
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salmon in the microwave or a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Just be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the fish.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Absolutely! Preheat your grill, and use a grill-safe pan or put the salmon directly on the grates if they’re well-oiled. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, adding the pesto butter in the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious finish.