Name: 5-Ingredient Pesto Baked Salmon
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 Servings
Cuisine: Other
Ingredients: 4 atlantic salmon fillets; 0.5 tsp salt; black pepper; 0.25 cup basil pesto; 0.5 lemon

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5-Ingredient Pesto Baked Salmon

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Ingredients

Warning0 allergens identified

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Gently pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place on the baking sheet, skin side down.

Sprinkle the tops of the salmon with the salt and black pepper.

Spoon an equal amount of basil pesto sauce over each salmon fillet. Spread to coat each fillet with an even layer.

Bake the salmon on middle rack of oven until it flakes easily with a fork, 12-15 minutes.

Check to see that salmon is done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over salmon if desired. Serve immediately. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days.

Video Tutorial Bite Tutorial

Nutrition

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Pat Salmon Dry for Crispy Skin 🎯
Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the salmon fillets before applying pesto; this prevents steam buildup and allows the skin to crisp beautifully in the oven.
Reserve Fresh Basil for Garnish 🌿
Save some fresh basil leaves to sprinkle over the salmon immediately after baking to brighten flavors and add visual appeal without cooking off delicate oils.
Temperature Peak at 145°F 🌡️
Remove salmon from the oven when it reaches exactly 145°F in the thickest part; carry-over cooking will bring it to perfect doneness while keeping it moist and tender.
Room Temperature Fish Cooks Evenly ❄️
Remove salmon from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking throughout and prevent the edges from drying out before the center is cooked.
Lemon Zest Amplifies Citrus Brightness 🍋
Grate lemon zest over the pesto before applying it to the salmon for concentrated, aromatic lemon flavor that complements the basil without adding excess moisture.