This Pesto Butter Salmon is a tasty dish that brings together flaky salmon and rich pesto butter. It’s quick to make and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
I love how the vibrant flavors of the pesto brighten up the salmon. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, especially when you scoop it up with some rice or veggies! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal here, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen salmon works too. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. If you prefer another fish, try trout or even chicken breasts.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto saves time, but homemade pesto is often fresher. You can swap basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto or even a spinach-artichoke spread for a twist on flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness in the dish. If you’re dairy-free, there are great vegan butter alternatives available. Olive oil can also be a good substitute, especially for a lighter result.
Fresh Herbs: Dill and parsley are great garnishes, but you can also use chives or basil. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried ones can serve in a pinch—just use less since they’re more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
A common challenge is cooking salmon just right. To do this, make sure the salmon is room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly. Here’s how to bake salmon perfectly:
- Preheat your oven properly—this ensures crispy edges and juicy insides.
- Aim for 12-15 minutes in the oven. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it’s done.
- For extra crispiness, broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end. Watch closely to prevent burning!
By following these tips, you’ll serve up delightful salmon every time!
Pesto Butter Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed
For the Pesto Butter:
- 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
- Optional: asparagus or green beans, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon will cook evenly. You can line a baking dish or ovenproof skillet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the salmon doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare the Pesto Butter:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, basil pesto, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This will be the delicious topping for your salmon!
3. Get the Salmon Ready:
Next, pat dry each salmon fillet with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the salmon sear beautifully. Place the fillets in your prepared baking dish or skillet.
4. Top with Pesto Butter:
Now, take your pesto butter mixture and evenly spread it over the top of each salmon fillet. Make sure to coat them generously for some amazing flavor.
5. Add Lemon:
Arrange the thin lemon slices over and around the salmon fillets. The lemon will add a lovely zesty note to the dish as it cooks.
6. Add Optional Veggies:
If you’re using asparagus or green beans, toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them around the salmon for an easy one-pan meal.
7. Bake the Salmon:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.
8. Optional Broil:
If you want a nice golden top, you can broil the salmon for another 1-2 minutes. Just watch closely to avoid burning!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately, accompanied by the lemon slices and any veggies. Enjoy your delicious Pesto Butter Salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon in This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw your frozen salmon before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly submerge it in cold water. Pat it dry before applying the pesto butter for the best results.
What Can I Use Instead of Basil Pesto?
If you don’t have basil pesto, you can substitute it with sun-dried tomato pesto, spinach pesto, or even a homemade garlic and herb blend. Each will give a unique flavor to the salmon!
How Can I Store Leftover Pesto Butter Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a bit of lemon juice to freshen it up!
What Should I Serve with Pesto Butter Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with a side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, serve it over a fresh salad or with steamed asparagus or green beans.
