Description
This Salmon Pesto Pasta recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender pan-seared salmon fillets are flaked and combined with al dente spaghetti, sweet cherry tomatoes, and vibrant basil pesto. Finished with freshly grated Parmesan and a few basil leaves, this pasta combines rich, fresh flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salmon
- 2 skinless salmon fillets (about 5 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or fettuccine until al dente according to package directions. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water to help adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Prepare Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the fish is flaky and golden brown. Remove from heat and gently flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, flaked salmon, halved cherry tomatoes, and basil pesto. Toss everything gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
- Adjust Sauces Consistency: If the mixture seems dry or too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired sauciness is achieved, stirring to blend well.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta mixture and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a burst of color and flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Notes
- If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can use smoked salmon but reduce cooking time accordingly.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the pesto with fresh chopped basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Store any leftovers refrigerated and consume within 2 days for best freshness.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
