Salmon Pesto Pasta
This salmon pesto pasta is a light, flavorful dish made with tender salmon, fresh basil pesto, and perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe delivers a healthy, balanced meal with rich taste and a fresh, herby finish.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup basil pesto
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: cherry tomatoes
- Optional: lemon juice
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
- Season salmon with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through, then remove.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add pasta and pesto, tossing to coat evenly.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
- Gently fold in salmon and optional tomatoes.
- Serve topped with Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon.
Notes
- Do not overcook salmon to keep it moist.
- Use pasta water to create a smooth sauce.
- Adjust pesto quantity to taste.
- Best served fresh for optimal flavor and texture.