This Salmon Pesto Pasta is a delightful mix of fresh flavors! Tender salmon paired with creamy pesto sauce over a bed of pasta makes for a quick and tasty meal.
Honestly, it feels fancy without all the fuss—perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself! I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra yum. Enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: A mix of penne and spiral pasta adds fun texture. You can use any pasta you like—whole wheat or gluten-free options work too!
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best for this dish. If you’re short on time, canned salmon can be a good substitute, too! Just drain it, then mix it into the pasta.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If they’re not available, try diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.
Basil Pesto: You can use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you have time. If you’re dairy-free, look for a vegan pesto, or blend your favorite nuts with basil and olive oil.
How Can I Perfectly Cook Salmon for This Dish?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Let it warm up so that the salmon sizzles when you put it in.
- Season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Don’t skip the seasoning—it enhances the flavor!
- Place the salmon skin-side down in the hot skillet. This helps create a crispy texture.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. The salmon should be nice and flaky when done.
- If you’re unsure, a fork can help; gently flake the salmon to check for doneness—if it breaks apart easily, it’s ready!
Salmon Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz pasta (a mix of penne and spiral pasta or your favorite types)
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling the pasta and preparing the salmon, with just a few more minutes for combining everything. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, meaning it’s tender but still has a bit of bite. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Preparing the Salmon:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Next, season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Carefully place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then gently flip it over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Mixing It All Together:
In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta with the basil pesto. Toss everything together until the pasta is beautifully coated with the pesto. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pasta, gently mixing them in without squishing them.
4. Plating Up:
Now it’s time to serve! Plate the pesto pasta and place a salmon fillet on top of each serving. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly sliced basil and a wedge of lemon on the side for an added zing. Squeeze the lemon over the salmon when you’re ready to enjoy!
5. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve immediately while it’s warm, and dig into the wonderful flavors of your Salmon Pesto Pasta. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While a mix of penne and spiral pasta works wonderfully, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even spaghetti would be great options!
Can I Substitute the Salmon with Another Protein?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use other proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to refresh the flavors.
Can I Make This Dish Without Pesto?
Of course! If you don’t have pesto on hand, you can use olive oil, garlic, and grated parmesan for a simple dressing. Alternatively, try making a light cream sauce or a tomato-based sauce for a different flavor profile.