This Salmon Pesto Pasta is a yummy mix of tender salmon and creamy pesto sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor!
Honestly, every bite feels like a hug from the inside. I love to sprinkle some cheese on top for a little extra goodness. It’s dinner made easy and delicious! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Short pasta types like trofie, fusilli, or rotini work best here. If you don’t have these on hand, any pasta shape can work, even spaghetti or penne!
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal, but you can use canned salmon or cooked salmon leftovers if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to add it at the end to warm it through.
Pesto: Fresh basil pesto brings lots of flavor, but if you can’t find it, try jarred pesto. You can even make your own with basil, nuts, and olive oil if you prefer!
Green Beans: These add nice color and nutrition. If green beans aren’t available, you could swap them for spinach or broccoli for some greens in your pasta.
Parmesan Cheese: Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano make great substitutes for Parmesan. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooked salmon can be tricky, but here’s how to make it perfect! Start with high heat and keep an eye on the time. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure to let your skillet get hot before adding the salmon. A hot pan ensures a nice crust.
- Cook skin-side down first if your fillet has skin. This keeps the fish moist and helps the skin crisp up.
- Avoid moving the salmon too much in the pan. Let it cook without fussing with it for the best browning.
- Use a fork to check if it flakes easily to see if it’s done. It should still be slightly pink in the middle for perfect texture.
How to Make Salmon Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) short pasta (trofie, fusilli, or rotini)
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking salmon)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and blanched (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Salmon Pesto Pasta takes about 20 minutes to make, including cooking the pasta and salmon. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a lovely weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. If you’re using green beans, add them to the pot during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. When everything is cooked, drain the pasta and green beans, but remember to save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Prepare the Salmon:
While your pasta is cooking, take your salmon fillets and season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This adds a wonderful flavor to the fish.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down if they have skin. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until they’re golden and crisp on the bottom. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest for a minute before cutting it into chunks.
4. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
In the pot or a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta and green beans. Add the basil pesto and a splash of the reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce. Gently stir and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the pesto.
5. Serve:
Divide the pesto pasta among plates, arranging the salmon chunks on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over everything. For a fresh touch, you can garnish with chopped fresh dill or parsley.
6. Optional Touch:
Serve lemon wedges on the side for a bright squeeze over the dish right before eating—this adds a lovely zing!
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta! It’s a wonderful mix of flavors and textures you’ll love every time. 😊
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method by sealing it in plastic and submerging it in cold water. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure it gets a nice sear.
What Can I Substitute for Pesto?
If you don’t have pesto on hand, you can use a homemade version with fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts, or try using sun-dried tomato pesto for a different twist. Alternatively, a simple olive oil and garlic mixture can work in a pinch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the salmon and add more vegetables instead, like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. For protein, consider tossing in some chickpeas or tofu to keep it hearty and satisfying.