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Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe

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4.4 from 11 reviews

This Salmon Pesto Pasta recipe combines tender, pan-seared salmon with a creamy, flavorful pesto sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a delicious and elegant meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining, featuring fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon for brightness.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta and Protein

  • 12 ounces pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 pound fresh salmon (skin off)

Seasonings and Coating

  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon coarse ground pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ tablespoon flour

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ⅓ cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • ⅔ cup pesto
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Garnish

  • Parsley (optional)
  • Additional Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook your pasta according to the package directions in a salted pot of boiling water. When done, drain the pasta but reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: Sprinkle the salmon with kosher salt, coarse ground pepper, and garlic powder evenly. Then dust all sides with the flour to lightly coat the fish.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to become hot but not smoking.
  4. Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until cooked through and flaky. Once done, transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside.
  5. Make the Sauce Base: Drain the excess oil from the pan, then reduce heat to medium. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the pesto. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the broth is simmering and the pesto is well incorporated.
  6. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Allow the sauce to cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes, thickening slightly.
  7. Prepare Salmon for Mixing: While the sauce thickens, break the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces using a fork or your hands.
  8. Combine Pasta, Salmon, and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and salmon pieces to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency, keeping in mind it will thicken as it cools. Taste and adjust with an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if you like, then serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Reserving pasta water is key for adjusting the sauce consistency, as it helps to loosen the sauce without diluting the flavors.
  • For skin-on salmon, you can leave the skin on while cooking, then remove it before breaking into pieces if preferred.
  • If you prefer, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though the texture may be less rich.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor; pre-grated cheese can alter the texture of the sauce.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/salmon-pesto-pasta-recipe/