Description

This creamy and vibrant salmon pesto pasta is a delightful and satisfying meal, combining perfectly baked salmon with a rich and flavorful pesto sauce. The addition of fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon takes this dish to a new level, making it a comforting yet light option for any occasion.

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets

8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)

1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional for added creaminess)

Fresh basil, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until fully cooked and easily flaked with a fork.
While the salmon is baking, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with pesto until fully coated. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream.
Flake the baked salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently fold it into the pesto pasta.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Vegetarian Version: Replace the salmon with roasted vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version, or use a dairy-free pesto sauce.

Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the pesto for a bit of heat that pairs beautifully with the richness of the salmon.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking, Boiling
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 600 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 25g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 65mg