Juicy Baked Pesto Salmon

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Succulent, flaky salmon smothered in vibrant basil pesto and roasted to perfection — this Juicy Baked Pesto Salmon is a weeknight dinner dream come true. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dish delivers maximum flavor in under 30 minutes. It’s elegant enough to serve at a dinner party but simple enough to become a regular in your weekly meal rotation.

The golden crust from the oven-baked pesto, combined with juicy, tender salmon and a burst of citrus from the lemon slices, creates a flavor-packed experience. It’s healthy, beautiful on the plate, and so satisfying you won’t believe how easy it is to make.

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Why You’ll Love This Juicy Baked Pesto Salmon

• Quick & Easy: This recipe is oven-ready in just minutes and bakes while you prep a side dish.
• Healthy & Flavorful: Full of omega-3s, protein, and fresh herb goodness.
• Minimal Ingredients: A short grocery list with big results.
• Versatile: Works with homemade or store-bought pesto, and you can bake it with veggies in the same pan.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will fall for the rich flavors and juicy texture.

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What Kind of Pesto Should I Use?

You can use any pesto you love, whether it’s classic basil, sun-dried tomato, or even a dairy-free version. Store-bought works perfectly for speed, but if you have a favorite homemade pesto recipe, go for it! Just make sure it has a good balance of garlic, olive oil, nuts, and fresh herbs to infuse the salmon with deep, savory flavor.

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Ingredients for the Juicy Baked Pesto Salmon

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in delivering flavor and moisture to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Salmon fillets – The star of the show! Choose skinless or skin-on fillets, ideally center-cut for even cooking.
• Basil pesto – Rich, herby, and aromatic, it infuses the salmon with tons of flavor.
• Fresh garlic – Adds depth and a sharp, savory bite.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, but great for a little heat and contrast.
• Pine nuts – Add crunch and enhance the nutty element of the pesto.
• Lemon slices – Brightens the dish and balances the richness of the fish and pesto.
• Olive oil – Helps keep the salmon moist and gives it a luscious finish.
• Salt & black pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

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How To Make the Juicy Baked Pesto Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the salmon bakes quickly without drying out.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the dish, skin-side down. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Add the Pesto

Generously spoon pesto over each piece of salmon, spreading it evenly across the top.

Step 5: Garnish with Garlic, Nuts & Pepper Flakes

Sprinkle minced garlic, pine nuts, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the pesto for extra flavor and texture.

Step 6: Add Lemon Slices

Top each fillet with a thin slice of lemon. This not only looks pretty but adds a refreshing citrus note.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after baking. This helps the juices settle and keeps every bite tender.

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How to Serve and Store Juicy Baked Pesto Salmon

This dish is best served hot right out of the oven, when the pesto is bubbling and the lemon is juicy and fragrant. It feeds about 4 people, making it perfect for a small family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. For extra elegance, serve it directly from the baking dish or plate it individually with a garnish of fresh herbs.

To store leftovers, let the salmon cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture. You can also enjoy it cold over salads for a refreshing lunch option.

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What to Serve With Juicy Baked Pesto Salmon?

This salmon dish pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. Here are some tasty suggestions:

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans

A crisp and vibrant veggie side that complements the richness of the salmon.

2. Roasted Baby Potatoes

Tossed with herbs and olive oil, these are a hearty, comforting addition.

3. Lemon Orzo Pasta

Light and citrusy, it balances the pesto flavors beautifully.

4. Mixed Greens Salad

Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

5. Steamed Asparagus

Simple, elegant, and a great low-carb option.

6. Herbed Couscous

Fluffy couscous with parsley and mint offers a Mediterranean touch.

7. Crusty Bread

Perfect for mopping up any leftover pesto sauce on the plate.

8. Grilled Zucchini

Lightly charred zucchini adds a smoky depth that pairs well with pesto.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before adding pesto. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures even cooking.

2. What if I don’t have pine nuts?
No worries. You can substitute with chopped walnuts, almonds, or skip the nuts entirely if needed. They add crunch but aren’t essential.

3. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The color should change from translucent to opaque.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prep the salmon with pesto in advance and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 6 hours before baking.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your pesto is gluten-free (most are, but always check labels).

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it spicy or keep it classic? Did you go with homemade or store-bought pesto?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter and share delicious food ideas.
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Conclusion

Juicy Baked Pesto Salmon is a simple yet elegant meal that delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch option, or an impressive dish for guests, this salmon hits the mark. Fresh, flavorful, and always satisfying — it’s a go-to recipe that never fails.

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