Baked Pesto Salmon Recipe

Introduction

Baked Pesto Salmon is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. With blistered cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil pesto, this recipe delivers fresh and vibrant flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets (skin on)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup Homemade Basil Pesto (or store-bought)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Step 2: Toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil. Season with Kosher salt and black pepper. Spread the tomatoes on the prepared sheet pan and bake for 10 minutes until blistered, then remove from the oven.
3. Step 3: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the sheet pan next to the tomatoes.
4. Step 4: Brush each salmon fillet generously with the basil pesto.
5. Step 5: Bake the salmon and tomatoes together for about 15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches 135 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part.
6. Step 6: Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure salmon is perfectly cooked without drying out.
• Try adding sliced garlic or red pepper flakes to the tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Substitute cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes or halved small heirlooms for variety.
• For a creamier topping, mix pesto with a little ricotta or cream cheese before brushing on the salmon.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit or in a microwave until heated through, being careful not to overcook the salmon.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator before baking to ensure even cooking.

Is it necessary to use homemade pesto?

No, store-bought pesto works well too and adds convenience without sacrificing much flavor.