Salmon Pesto Pasta

This salmon pesto pasta recipe features tender salmon cooked to perfection, tossed in a creamy pesto sauce with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon. Ready in under 30 minutes, it combines simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan with perfectly cooked pasta for a flavorful weeknight dinner. Ideal for seafood lovers seeking a quick and healthy meal option that balances rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta
• 1 pound fresh salmon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Flour, for dredging
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/3 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
• 1/3 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (see note)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the salmon with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Lightly coat all sides with flour.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter. Add the salmon and cook for about 3 minutes per side until it turns golden brown. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside.
4. Pour out excess fat from the pan but keep the browned bits stuck to the bottom.
5. Add chicken broth (or white wine) and pesto to the skillet. Return to heat and cook for about 30 seconds, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen browned bits.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, letting the sauce simmer for about a minute.
7. Break the cooked salmon into chunks with a spoon and return it to the pan. Reduce heat and cook gently for 3–5 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
8. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salmon pesto pasta combines fresh salmon and creamy pesto sauce for a quick, flavorful meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

Tips

• Use dry white wine instead of chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it tender and flaky.
• Save the browned bits in the pan—they add deep flavor to the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute salmon with cooked shrimp or chicken for a different protein.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

FAQs

Can I use jarred pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works well and saves time.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
For best texture, prepare fresh, but the sauce and pasta can be made ahead and combined before serving.

Serving

Pair this pasta with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine also complements the flavors nicely.

Suggestions

Add roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the dish for extra texture and flavor. Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds a bright finish.