Baked Pesto Salmon

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<p>There's something truly special about a dish that can make any meal feel like a celebration, isn’t there? Baked pesto salmon is just that—a showstopper that's effortlessly simple yet bursting with flavor. I still remember the first time I had pesto salmon; it was a warm summer evening, sitting on the patio, and the sun was dipping low, casting lazy rays across the table. That moment, combined with the sensational taste, turned into an invitation to bring this recipe into my regular rotation. Trust me, once you've tried it, you'll wonder how you lived without it!</p>
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<p>This dish embodies the essence of effortless sophistication. Fire up your oven, and you’ll soon be enveloped in the fragrant aroma of roasted salmon, zesty pesto, and tangy lemon—it’s a sensory experience you won't want to miss. Plus, it comes together faster than your favorite series binge-watch, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual gathering with friends.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What makes this recipe special</h2>
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<p>So, what sets this baked pesto salmon apart from the ordinary? First, let’s talk about flavor. The rich, buttery texture of the salmon marries perfectly with the herby brightness of the pesto, creating a symphony that dances across your palate. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the juicy fish, nutty parmesan, and the freshness of lemon.</p>
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<p>If you’re keen on healthy eating, you’ll adore that this dish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids. That’s right, salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with good fats that promote heart health. Eating this dish feels like a win-win as it’s both wholesome and indulgently rich. It’s the dish you’ll want to whip up when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. So why not treat yourself to something that feels special tonight?</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gather these ingredients</h2>
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<p>Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather everything you’ll need:</p>
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<li><strong>Salmon fillets:</strong> Fresh, skin-on or skinless—your call! Choose fillets that look vibrant and moist for the best results.</li>
<li><strong>Pesto sauce:</strong> Homemade or store-bought works here! If you're feeling adventurous, consider mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra kick.</li>
<li><strong>Olive oil:</strong> A drizzle to enhance richness. Extra virgin carries depth, so if you have it, use it!</li>
<li><strong>Salt and black pepper:</strong> Essential seasoning to bring all these flavors to life. Don't shy away—use it generously!</li>
<li><strong>Lemon slices:</strong> Fresh lemon adds the perfect zing to balance the richness of the salmon. Zest if you’re feeling fancy!</li>
<li><strong>Parmesan cheese:</strong> Grated and ready to melt beautifully over your salmon. For a twist, try pecorino or even a vegan alternative!</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Preparing Baked Pesto Salmon</h2>
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<p>Let’s get to the good stuff! Here’s how you’ll create this mouthwatering dish:</p>
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<li>Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This makes sure your salmon gets that gorgeous, flaky texture.</li>
<li>Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. It saves cleanup and prevents sticking—total win!</li>
<li>Place your salmon fillets on the sheet, spaced out for even cooking.</li>
<li>Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the fillets, then season with salt and pepper. Don’t skip this step! It’s where flavor starts.</li>
<li>Generously spread pesto sauce over each fillet, making sure they’re well-coated; think of it as giving your salmon a cozy blanket!</li>
<li>Top each fillet with a few slices of lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese—this is where magic happens. Cheese is the soul of flavor!</li>
<li>Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let it work its magic for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is perfectly cooked. Look for a slightly opaque center.</li>
<li>Once done, serve immediately while it’s fresh and warm along with your favorite sides.</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Best way to enjoy it</h2>
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<p>Now that you’ve got this gorgeous dish ready, let’s talk presentation. I love serving this salmon alongside a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a nutty bite. Roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad brightens the plate beautifully. And for an extra flourish? A light drizzle of balsamic reduction over the greens! It adds a nice pop of acidity.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Storage and reheating tips</h2>
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<p>If by some miracle you have leftovers (I doubt you will!), here’s how to store them. Place your salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When it's time to reheat, gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature to keep it tender. Microwaving is okay too, but be careful to avoid overcooking—nobody likes dry salmon!</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Helpful cooking tips</h2>
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<p>For a fail-proof dish, here are my insider tips:</p>
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<li>Choose fresh salmon with a moist feel and bright color; frozen is fine but defrost properly to avoid texture changes.</li>
<li>If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought pesto; just ensure it’s high-quality.</li>
<li>Don’t rush the cooking—check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest briefly before serving for the best texture!</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Flavor swaps</h2>
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<p>If you’re feeling creative, there are endless adaptations to this recipe:</p>
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<li><strong>Herb variations:</strong> Swap the pesto for a mix of fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a different twist.</li>
<li><strong>Cheese swap:</strong> Experiment with feta or goat cheese for tanginess.</li>
<li><strong>Nutty options:</strong> Crushed almonds or walnuts set a lovely crunch over the top!</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ingredients</h2>
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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Salmon fillets</li>
<li>Pesto sauce</li>
<li>Olive oil</li>
<li>Salt</li>
<li>Black pepper</li>
<li>Lemon slices</li>
<li>Parmesan cheese</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Directions to follow</h2>
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<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).</li>
<li>Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.</li>
<li>Place salmon fillets on the sheet.</li>
<li>Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.</li>
<li>Spread pesto sauce generously over each fillet.</li>
<li>Top with lemon slices and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.</li>
<li>Bake in the oven for about 12-15 minutes, until cooked through.</li>
<li>Serve immediately.</li>
</ol>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your questions answered</h2>
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<li><strong>Can I use something other than salmon?</strong> Absolutely! Try this recipe with trout or even chicken breast for a different protein.</li>
<li><strong>How do I know when the salmon is done?</strong> Look for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or flake gently with a fork.</li>
<li><strong>What's a good side dish?</strong> Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a light salad are splendid accompaniments.</li>
<li><strong>Can I make this ahead of time?</strong> You can prep everything and assemble in advance but bake right before serving for the best results.</li>
<li><strong>What if I can’t find pesto?</strong> A homemade blend of basil, olive oil, nuts, and cheese can work wonders—get creative!</li>
</ul>
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<p>Cooking is about sharing and creativity—a way to express love through flavors. This baked pesto salmon will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire, bringing joy to your table. I can't wait for you to try it out! Feel free to experiment and put your unique spin on it, then come back and tell me how it went. Let's keep the conversation flowing!</p>
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Baked Pesto Salmon

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• Author: grace
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Pescatarian

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Description

A simple yet elegant dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with fragrant pesto and fresh lemon.

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Ingredients

• Salmon fillets
• Pesto sauce
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon slices
• Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Spread pesto sauce generously over each fillet.
6. Top with lemon slices and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
7. Bake in the oven for about 12-15 minutes, until cooked through.
8. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a different twist, try using a mix of fresh herbs or other types of cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: salmon, pesto, baked, seafood, healthy recipe