This Salmon Pesto Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that combines fresh salmon with creamy pesto and pasta. It’s colorful and packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up this dish. I love how the pesto brings the salmon to life. Plus, it’s perfect for a dinner that feels fancy but only takes 20 minutes to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rotini for this dish because the spirals hold onto the pesto beautifully. However, you can swap it for any pasta shape you enjoy, like penne or fusilli!
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here. If you can’t find it or want a change, try cooked shrimp or even canned salmon for convenience. Both options work well and are delicious!
Pesto: While basil pesto is traditional, you can use sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto for a different flavor twist. Homemade pesto is always great if you’ve got fresh herbs!
Parmesan: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, sprinkle in nutritional yeast or use a dairy-free cheese. It’ll still add some nice flavor to the dish!
How Can I Cook Salmon Perfectly?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can get it just right. The key is to cook it until it flakes easily but is still moist inside.
- Start with medium heat in your skillet to avoid burning the outside. Oil helps, so don’t skip that step!
- Cook the salmon for about 3-4 minutes on each side. If you have a thicker fillet, you might need a minute or two more.
- After cooking, let it rest for a minute. This keeps it juicy and allows it to cool slightly before flaking.
Salmon Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz salmon fillet, skin removed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or pasta cooking water (optional, for creamier sauce)
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 25 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the salmon and pasta, with a few extra minutes mixing everything together. It’s a quick yet satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to save 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain it, then set the pasta aside!
2. Cook the Salmon:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillet on both sides with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through and has a nice golden brown color. When done, remove it from the pan and flake it into bite-sized pieces using a fork.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This adds a wonderful aroma to your dish!
4. Combine Everything:
Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta back into the skillet with the garlic. Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing everything well so the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If you want a creamier texture, add the reserved pasta water or a splash of heavy cream gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Fold in the Salmon:
Gently fold in the flaked salmon pieces, taking care not to break them up too much. Taste your pasta and add more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Now for the best part! Serve the salmon pesto pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves. Enjoy this comforting dish filled with flavor!
Dig in and savor this delicious Salmon Pesto Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw it completely beforehand. You can thaw salmon by placing it in the fridge overnight or sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a quicker option. Once thawed, pat it dry with paper towels before cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the pasta and cook the salmon in advance. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, heat them back up in a skillet with a splash of olive oil to revive the flavors.
How to Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra pesto or olive oil if it seems dry.
What Can I Use Instead of Basil Pesto?
If basil pesto isn’t your thing, you can definitely switch it up! Try sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto for a different flavor profile. Homemade pesto using other herbs like arugula or cilantro can also add a nice twist!
