There’s something truly magical about the combination of fresh, herby pesto and rich, flaky salmon. Pesto Crusted Salmon brings together the bright, savory flavors of basil, garlic, and Parmesan with the buttery texture of perfectly cooked salmon.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and garlic make all the difference in your pesto. Choose the freshest ingredients you can find to ensure vibrant flavor.
- Pat the salmon dry: Before applying the pesto, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the pesto adhere better and results in a crispier crust.
- Don’t overcook the salmon: Keep an eye on your salmon as it bakes. Overcooked salmon can become dry, so aim for a slightly opaque center for the perfect texture.
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Pesto Crusted Salmon
Ingredients
- 2 salmon filets 4-6 oz each
- 1 ounce (28 g) fresh basil leaves
- 1 ounce (28 g) Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese crumbled or shredded
- 2 tablespoons (20 g) pine nuts toasted for extra flavor
- 3 tablespoons (44 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic small
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F(175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Add all other ingredients to a food processor or blender and puree for 30 seconds.
- Stop to stir and scrape down the sides. Blend for an additional 15 seconds.
- Coat the salmon with the pesto.
- Place the salmon on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until your desired doneness. Internal temperature of the salmon should reach at least 120°F(50°C).
- Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Notes
- Fresh basil and garlic make all the difference in your pesto. Choose the freshest ingredients you can find to ensure vibrant flavor.
- Before applying the pesto, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the pesto adhere better and results in a crispier crust.
- Keep an eye on your salmon as it bakes. Overcooked salmon can become dry, so aim for a slightly opaque center for the perfect texture.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Before You Go
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Angela lives a low-carb lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest with her two kids. She loves to read, cook, bake, try new recipes, and travel.