This Salmon Pesto Pasta is a tasty meal that’s super easy to whip up! The yummy pesto sauce mixes perfectly with tender salmon and pasta for a bright and colorful dish!
Honestly, I love how quick this recipe is. Just cook the pasta, mix in that fresh pesto, and flake the salmon. Dinner is ready before you can say, “Where’s my plate?” 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is great for this dish as its shape holds onto the sauce well. If you don’t have farfalle, any pasta like penne or fusilli would work. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free pasta too.
Salmon: Use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor. If salmon isn’t available, try using trout or even cooked shrimp. Canned salmon can also be a quick substitute.
Pesto: Homemade pesto tastes amazing, but store-bought is just fine if you’re short on time. If you want a different flavor, try sun-dried tomato pesto or even a spinach-based pesto.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty touch. You can swap it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly?
Cooking salmon just right can make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfectly cooked salmon:
- Start with a non-stick skillet for easy cooking.
- Heat the oil until it’s hot but not smoking. This helps to sear the salmon.
- Cook skin-side down if your fillet has skin; this will protect the delicate flesh and hold the moisture.
- Aim for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
And don’t forget, a little bit of resting time after cooking helps keep the salmon juicy!
Salmon Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1-2 fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a tasty dinner ready in just about 25 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the farfalle pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 10-12 minutes. Afterward, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
While the pasta is cooking, take the salmon fillets and season them on both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance their flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon:
In a non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if they have skin. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and develop a nice golden crust. Remove the salmon from the heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Flake the Salmon:
Once the salmon is cool enough to handle, use a fork to gently flake it into large chunks. Be careful not to break it up too much!
5. Toss with Pesto:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the basil pesto. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the pesto.
6. Combine with Salmon:
Now, gently fold the flaked salmon and grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta. Mix just enough to combine without breaking up the salmon too much. It should look colorful and creamy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Divide the salmon pesto pasta into serving bowls. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a fresh basil leaf on top for a lovely touch. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite!
This dish offers a perfect balance of tender salmon, vibrant basil pesto, and comforting pasta for a simple yet elegant meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works wonderfully, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for the specific pasta you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Basil Pesto?
If you’re out of basil pesto, try using sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile. You can also blend fresh spinach, garlic, olive oil, and nuts to make a quick substitute!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from drying out.
Can I Make It Without Cheese?
Yes! You can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Nutritional yeast is a great option for adding a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
