Baked Pesto Salmon

by Vorst Canada February 18, 2025

Juicy cherry tomatoes, flaky salmon, and aromatic pesto come together in a dish that’s both effortless and flavourful. The best part? It requires minimal prep yet delivers maximum taste. Simply coat the salmon with pesto, layer on cherry tomatoes and mozzarella, and then bake until tender and perfectly cooked.

Whether you're hosting guests or need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill.

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
½ cup pesto sauce
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp dried basil

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Evenly spread 2 tablespoons of pesto over each fillet, leaving a slight edge uncovered.
Scatter cherry tomatoes on top, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella. Finish with dried basil.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Serve warm and enjoy every bite!

Customizations & Enhancements:

Swap dried basil for fresh for a more pronounced herbal note.
Brighten the dish with lemon wedges or thin slices of garlic.
Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan or crumbled feta for a new flavour profile.
Pair with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a well-rounded meal

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 320 Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fibre: 1g Sugar:
2g Sodium: 250mg

Take It to the Next Level:

Crisp up some prosciutto or bacon for a savoury contrast.
Stir chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the pesto for added depth.
Use a flavoured pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or roasted garlic, for an exciting variation.
Complement the dish with roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus for extra nutrients.
Sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts for a delightful crunch.

There’s no wrong way to enjoy this recipe—feel free to get creative and make it your own!