Salmon Pesto Pasta

If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, comforting, and downright delicious, let me introduce you to my favorite—Salmon Pesto Pasta! This recipe has become a staple in my home because it strikes the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this one-bowl meal never fails to impress.

What makes this Salmon Pesto Pasta so special is not just its amazing flavor but also how easy it is to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that feels like a treat. Plus, roasting the salmon adds a lovely texture without a lot of fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those nights when you’re short on time.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of tender salmon and vibrant pesto is both satisfying and uplifting.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love pasta, and the addition of salmon makes it nutritious without them even noticing!
• Flexible Ingredients: You can use either homemade or jarred pesto based on what you have on hand, making it super adaptable.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Cook the salmon and pasta ahead of time for an easy reheat meal during the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Salmon Pesto Pasta shine. I love how straightforward these items are; they come together beautifully for a satisfying meal.

For the Salmon

• 2 large salmon filets
• 1-2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon)
• Kosher salt and black pepper

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces dried pasta
• 2/3 cup pesto (jarred or homemade)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can personalize it to suit your tastes or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: If you don’t have salmon on hand, try using grilled chicken or shrimp for another delicious option!
• Add some veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach while cooking your pasta for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with different flavors by using sun-dried tomato pesto or even a creamy Alfredo if you’re feeling indulgent.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free version to enjoy this dish without worry.

How to Make Salmon Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

First things first, let’s get our salmon ready! Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place your salmon filets skin-side down (if they have skin) on top. A light brushing of olive oil and fresh lemon juice will enhance the flavor beautifully. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper—these little touches make all the difference!

Step 2: Roast the Salmon

Now, here’s my favorite part: roasting! Place the baking sheet in a cold oven. Close the door and turn it on to 400 degrees F. Set your timer for 20 minutes. This method allows for gentle cooking that keeps your salmon moist and flaky—yum!

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta

While the salmon roasts away, bring a large pot of well-salted water to boil. Add your dried pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s great for adjusting your sauce later!

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Pesto

Return your drained pasta to the pot and add in that luscious pesto along with grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined! If you’re looking for a saucier dish, add reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Flake and Serve

Once your salmon is perfectly cooked (it should flake easily), break it into bite-sized pieces using a fork. You can either mix it right into your pasta pot or serve it separately on top of each plateful—either way is delicious!

And there you have it—a warm bowl of Salmon Pesto Pasta ready to enjoy! It’s one of those recipes that not only fills your belly but warms your heart too. Enjoy every glorious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salmon Pesto Pasta

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Preheat your oven with the salmon inside: This method allows for a more gentle cooking process, ensuring that the salmon stays moist and tender without drying out.

• Use high-quality pesto: Whether store-bought or homemade, good pesto can make or break your dish. Opt for fresh ingredients in homemade versions or select a brand that uses quality basil and olive oil to elevate flavors.

• Reserve pasta water wisely: This starchy water can be the secret weapon to achieving the perfect sauce consistency. A little splash can help bind the sauce and pasta together seamlessly.

• Season generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your pasta and salmon. A touch of salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite deliciously memorable.

• Experiment with variations: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the pasta for extra color and nutrition. This not only adds variety but also enhances texture and flavor.

How to Serve Salmon Pesto Pasta

Presenting your Salmon Pesto Pasta beautifully can turn an everyday meal into something special. Here are some ideas to help you showcase this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves give a pop of color and enhance the herbaceous notes of the pesto.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest adds brightness and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the salmon.
• Chili flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a light dusting of chili flakes can add a lovely kick without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside with buttery garlic goodness inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto sauce.

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta while adding crunch.

• Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious side is easy to prepare and brings vibrant color to your plate while complementing the flavors of salmon.

• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt, roasted asparagus offers a deliciously earthy contrast to your creamy pesto pasta.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that everyone will savor! Enjoy your culinary adventure with Salmon Pesto Pasta!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salmon Pesto Pasta recipe is perfect for meal prep! With its delightful flavors and easy storage options, you can whip up a batch ahead of time, making busy weekdays feel a bit more manageable.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best flavor, consider portioning it into individual servings.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon in the Salmon Pesto Pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute salmon with other fish like trout or even chicken for an alternative twist on this dish.

How can I make my Salmon Pesto Pasta dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. The pesto can also be made with nutritional yeast for added flavor without dairy.

Can I prepare Salmon Pesto Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can easily make this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

What is the best way to store leftovers from Salmon Pesto Pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting and elegant Salmon Pesto Pasta at home! It’s such a versatile dish that brings joy to any weeknight dinner. Whether you’re savoring it fresh or enjoying leftovers later, I’m sure you’ll find it as delightful as I do. Happy cooking!