This pesto crusted salmon recipe is a quick weeknight meal that is not only easy to prepare, but super tasty as well.
When it comes to healthy weeknight meals, I'm all about salmon - from a salmon stir fry to chimichurri salmon.
While salmon has its own unique flavor compared to other fish, it also takes on flavors really well.
And this pesto crusted salmon couldn't be simpler. Just mix some pesto and breadcrumbs together and top on the salmon and bake. You get crunch and flavor from the mixture, plus the wonderful taste of salmon.
It doesn't hurt that it can be made in less than 30 minutes. So if you are looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this should be at the top of the list.
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Ingredient Notes
- Salmon - when it comes to fish, I always go for wild caught if at all possible but farm-raised works too.
- Panko breadcrumbs - I like the extra crunchiness of the panko, but plain breadcrumbs work too. You could even make your own if your really want to step up your game.
- Pesto - I'm partial to homemade pesto sauce and usually use kale pistachio pesto, but you can easily use store-bought to save time.
Step-by-Step Photos
Mix together the panko and pesto in a bowl. Season the salmon with salt and pepper and top with the breadcrumb mixture. Spray with cooking spray.
Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is done.
FAQs
If possible always go with wild salmon as it's healthier than farmed salmon. The best types of salmon for pan-frying are coho, king, sockeye and spring.
The time to cook depends on the thickness of the salmon and if it is wild or farm raised.
The thicker the salmon, the longer it takes. Farm raised is fattier so usually takes longer as well, where wild salmon is easier to overcook.
In general, you want to cook for 4-6 minutes per ½ inch of thickness.
You know the salmon is done when it is opaque and easily flakes when you press down on it with a fork.
Side Dish Options
Parmesan roasted brussels sprouts is always a go-to of ours with this recipe but you can also make roasted potatoes, carrots or broccoli.
Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
- Use wild salmon when possible. It is healthier for you and just tastes better.
- If you want to save time, just use store-bought pesto.
- You know the salmon is done when it is opaque and easily flakes.
Other Salmon Recipes
If you’ve tried this pesto crusted salmon recipe or any other recipe on Chisel & Fork, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below! You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube to see more tasty meals and anything else I'm up to.
Pesto Crusted Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) salmon filets
- ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoon pesto
- salt and black pepper
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Mix together the breadcrumbs and pesto in a small bowl.
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Coat each filet with an even amount of the breadcrumb mixture on top and spray with some cooking spray.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is done and the topping is golden brown.
Notes
- Use wild salmon when possible. It is healthier for you and just tastes better.
- If you want to save time, just use store-bought pesto.
- You know the salmon is done when it is opaque and easily flakes.
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