If you’re looking for a dish that marries the rich, buttery flavors of fresh salmon with the vibrant, herbaceous punch of pesto, look no further. This Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe is a delightful way to bring a comforting yet elegant meal to your table any night of the week. With tender salmon pieces enveloped in a creamy, luscious pesto sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that feels both indulgent and fresh. The balance of textures and flavors will have you coming back for seconds and sharing it with those you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but each plays a crucial role in building the authentic flavors and satisfying texture that define this dish. From the protein-packed salmon to the creamy sauce and bright lemon juice, every element adds a layer of deliciousness you won’t want to miss.
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite type, but something like penne or fettuccine holds the sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound fresh salmon: The star ingredient that lends buttery richness and delicate flakiness.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning both the salmon and the sauce to enhance all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth without overpowering the salmon’s natural taste.
- Flour (for dredging): Helps give the salmon a light crust when cooked, locking in moisture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a clean, fruity flavor when searing the salmon.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Brings richness and aids in browning the fish perfectly.
- 1/3 cup chicken broth or dry white wine: The base to deglaze the pan, lifting all those flavorful browned bits.
- 1/3 cup pesto: Use your favorite jarred pesto or homemade—it’s the vibrant green heart of the sauce.
- 1/4 cup heavy/whipping cream: Gives the sauce a luxe, silky texture that wraps everything in warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish with a touch of acidity, balancing the creaminess.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional): A classic finishing touch that adds a savory, nutty note.
How to Make Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking your pasta just right—tender but firm to the bite—creates the perfect base to carry the luscious pesto sauce and flaky salmon. Be sure to follow package directions for timing.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Season the fresh salmon evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Lightly dredge it in flour, which will create a subtle crust when seared, locking in moisture and adding delightful texture.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil and butter together in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the salmon and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful golden crust. This step builds incredible flavor through caramelization.
Step 4: Remove Salmon and Keep Pan Bits
Transfer the salmon to a plate and set it aside. Carefully pour off excess fat from the skillet but leave behind those irresistible browned bits, which will infuse the sauce with rich complexity.
Step 5: Deglaze with Broth and Add Pesto
Return the pan to the heat and pour in the chicken broth (or white wine). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful bits stuck to the pan’s bottom. Stir in the pesto, letting the sauce start to come together with all those concentrated flavors.
Step 6: Finish the Sauce with Cream and Lemon
Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, letting the sauce bubble gently for about a minute. Add the salmon back to the pan, breaking it up gently with the spoon to distribute it evenly. Reduce the heat and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain your pasta and immediately toss it into the skillet with the salmon pesto sauce, ensuring every strand or piece is coated in creamy, flavorful goodness. Serve it straight away for the best texture and zest.
How to Serve Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is your chance to add some flair and additional layers of flavor. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty contrast. If you like a bit more color, a handful of toasted pine nuts or a few fresh basil leaves scattered on top works beautifully.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this dish with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the meal, or some roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes that complement the dish without competing with its delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the salmon pesto pasta on a large platter with whole basil sprigs and lemon wedges artfully arranged around the edges. Alternatively, individual bowls topped with a dollop of extra pesto add a personalized touch that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Salmon pesto pasta keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days in an airtight container. To maintain the best texture and flavor, store the pasta and sauce together instead of separately, preventing the pasta from drying out.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may soften upon thawing, so it’s ideal for a convenient meal rather than a show stopper.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high power as it can dry out the salmon and make the pasta gummy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! While salmon is perfect for this recipe’s flavor profile, trout or cod work well too. Just ensure the fish is cooked carefully to avoid drying out.
Is it necessary to dredge the salmon in flour?
Dredging helps create a lightly crispy exterior and locks in moisture, enhancing texture and taste. However, you can skip this step if you prefer a lighter coating or need a gluten-free option.
Can I make the pesto from scratch?
Definitely. Homemade pesto brings an elevated freshness and allows you to control the garlic and herb intensity. But good-quality store-bought pesto can save time and still taste fantastic.
What type of pasta pairs best with this sauce?
Short to medium pasta shapes such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle trap the sauce nicely, but thin ribbons like fettuccine also work if you want a smoother coating.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for olive oil, use a dairy-free cream alternative, and omit or replace parmesan with a vegan cheese option to suit your needs.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about this Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe, from the creamy sauce to the tender salmon flakes. It’s a truly rewarding dish that’s both simple to prepare and impressive to serve. So go ahead, give it a try—it might just become your newest weeknight favorite or the star of your next dinner gathering!
