Pesto Crusted Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pesto Crusted Salmon is a simple yet flavorful dish that pairs the richness of salmon with the vibrant, herby freshness of pesto. The crust creates a savory, golden topping that locks in moisture, making each bite tender and delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe brings gourmet flavors to your table with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)breadcrumbs (panko or regular)Parmesan cheeseolive oilsalt and pepperlemon wedges (for serving)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared sheet, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.

Season the salmon lightly with salt and pepper.

In a small bowl, mix the pesto, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese to form a paste-like mixture.

Spoon the pesto mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, pressing gently to adhere.

Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help with browning.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden.

Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 12-15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a bolder flavor.

Swap salmon for cod or halibut for a different fish option.

Add crushed nuts (like pine nuts or almonds) to the crust mixture for extra crunch.

Top with cherry tomatoes before baking for added juiciness and color.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through.Avoid microwaving to maintain the crust’s texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it fully and pat it dry before adding the pesto topping.

Is it okay to use jarred pesto?

Absolutely—store-bought pesto works great and saves time.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese substitute.

What side dishes go well with this?

Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad pair wonderfully.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I grill the pesto salmon?

It’s best baked, but you can grill it with a grill-safe tray to keep the topping intact.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the topping in advance, but assemble and bake just before serving for best results.

Does this work with skin-on salmon?

Yes, and the skin helps hold the fillet together during baking.

Can I freeze it?

It’s not recommended to freeze after baking, but you can freeze raw salmon and prep it fresh.

Conclusion

Pesto Crusted Salmon is an easy, elegant dish that delivers bold flavor and moist, flaky fish in every bite. Whether you’re impressing dinner guests or making a quick family meal, this recipe is a go-to that balances simplicity with sophistication. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your seafood rotation.

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