Pesto Crusted Salmon

If you’re craving a flavorful, elegant meal that’s simple to prepare, this Pesto Crusted Salmon is the perfect choice. With a vibrant, herby pesto spread over tender salmon fillets and a crisp golden crust, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, date night at home, or whenever you want to serve something healthy and impressive without the fuss.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Flavor-Packed – Bold, fresh pesto gives salmon a savory, herbaceous lift.
Healthy & Light – High in protein and heart-healthy omega-3s.
Elegant Yet Simple – Perfect for dinner parties or casual meals.
Customizable – Use your favorite pesto (store-bought or homemade) and crust ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing or greasing the pan)

For the Pesto Crust:

• ⅓ cup pesto (basil pesto recommended)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)

Optional Garnish & Serving:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Microplane or zester

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly brush with olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
2. Place them on the prepared baking sheet skin-side down (if using skin-on).
3. Season each fillet lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Make the Pesto Crust

1. In a small bowl, mix the pesto, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, and minced garlic (if using).
2. Stir until a thick, spreadable mixture forms. It should be moist enough to hold together.

Step 4: Add the Crust to the Salmon

1. Spoon the pesto mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
2. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to gently press it into a crust on top.
3. Make sure the topping covers the fillets completely.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon.
3. The fish should flake easily with a fork, and the topping should be lightly golden.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2–3 minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
3. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Perfect Pesto Crusted Salmon
Use Fresh Salmon – Choose bright, firm fillets with no strong odor for best results.
Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on the salmon to prevent drying out.
Use Panko for Extra Crunch – Panko breadcrumbs give a light, crispy texture.
Make It Your Own – Try sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, or nut-free versions.
Double the Crust – Love extra topping? Make 1.5x the crust mixture for thicker coverage.

Serving Suggestions
Lemon Herb Rice – Bright and fluffy, a perfect side for salmon.
Garlic Roasted Potatoes – Crisp and comforting.
Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans – Light veggies to complement the rich fish.
Quinoa Salad – A healthy, protein-rich pairing with a zesty vinaigrette.
Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freeze: Wrap cooked salmon tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes until warmed through.
Air Fryer: Heat at 320°F (160°C) for 3–4 minutes.
Avoid the microwave if possible—it can dry out the salmon and soften the crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw it fully and pat it dry before seasoning and baking.

2. What’s the best pesto to use?
Basil pesto is traditional, but you can use arugula, kale, or even cilantro pesto for a twist.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and confirm your pesto is gluten-free to make this recipe GF-friendly.

4. Can I cook this in the air fryer?
Yes. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, depending on fillet size. Check for doneness.

5. How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Final Thoughts
Pesto Crusted Salmon is a flavor-packed, foolproof dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. With its crispy topping and tender, flaky salmon, it’s a guaranteed hit with minimal effort. Pair it with fresh sides, and you’ve got a beautiful, balanced meal in no time.

Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so gourmet!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 370 | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 400mg

Print