This Salmon with Pesto Butter is a delightful seafood dish that combines the rich flavors of pan-seared salmon with a creamy homemade pesto butter. Perfect for any occasion, this quick recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings vibrant flavors to your dinner table. In just 20 minutes, you can serve a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavorful: The combination of salmon and pesto butter creates a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Versatile: Serve it with a side salad or over pasta for a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just 7 ingredients, you’ll have everything you need to create a delicious seafood dinner without hassle.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process. Using the right equipment helps in achieving the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly seared salmon.
- Spatula: Allows for easy flipping of the fish without breaking it apart.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the pesto and butter smoothly.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of ingredients for consistent flavor.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons light olive oil
- 4 4-ounce fillets salmon (skin removed)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice from ½ of a lemon
How to Make Salmon with Pesto Butter
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Butter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and basil pesto.
- Mix until fully incorporated and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and drizzle with lemon juice.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
- Heat the light olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
- Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets into the hot skillet.
- Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and top each fillet generously with the prepared pesto butter.
- Serve immediately while hot for maximum flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Salmon with Pesto Butter! This quick recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
How to Serve Salmon with Pesto Butter
Serving Salmon with Pesto Butter is a great way to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy dinner at home. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of salmon.
On a Bed of Quinoa
- Serve the salmon over fluffy quinoa for a nutritious and filling base that pairs well with the pesto butter.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a colorful and healthy touch to your plate, making for a balanced meal.
Accompanied by Rice Pilaf
- Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a light and aromatic side that absorbs the delicious pesto butter.
In Tacos
- For a fun twist, flake the salmon and serve it in corn tortillas topped with fresh salsa and avocado for seafood tacos.
With Garlic Bread
- Crispy garlic bread on the side is perfect for scooping up any leftover pesto butter, adding an extra layer of flavor.
How to Perfect Salmon with Pesto Butter
To achieve perfectly cooked Salmon with Pesto Butter, follow these key tips for an exceptional dish every time.
Use fresh salmon: Fresh fish provides better flavor and texture than frozen varieties. Select fillets that are bright in color and firm to touch.
Preheat your pan: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon. This helps create a nice sear and enhances the overall taste.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook salmon in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the pan, resulting in uneven cooking.
Monitor cooking time: Salmon cooks quickly; usually around 3-5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Let it rest: Allowing cooked salmon to sit for a minute off heat helps retain moisture and improves flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Salmon with Pesto Butter
Pairing your Salmon with Pesto Butter with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a hearty side that balances the dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients without overpowering the flavors of salmon.
Cauliflower Mash: Creamy cauliflower mash serves as a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes while still being satisfying.
Savory Couscous: Light couscous infused with lemon zest enhances freshness and works beautifully alongside rich salmon.
Asparagus Almondine: Fresh asparagus sautéed with almonds provides crunch and elegance, making it an ideal match.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This salad combines chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the dish well.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds seasonal delight; grill it simply brushed with olive oil for extra flavor.
Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles are not only healthy but also provide an amusing twist to your dinner plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salmon with Pesto Butter, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- seasoning: Not seasoning the salmon properly can lead to bland fish. Always season both sides with salt and pepper before cooking.
- butter temperature: Using cold butter can prevent it from mixing well with the pesto. Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature.
- cooking time: Overcooking the salmon can result in dry fish. Cook it just until it flakes easily with a fork, typically about 4-5 minutes per side.
- skillet choice: Using the wrong skillet can affect cooking. A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for an even sear.
- pesto freshness: Using stale or old pesto will dull the flavor. Use fresh homemade pesto or check the expiration date on store-bought versions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Salmon with Pesto Butter in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Salmon with Pesto Butter
- Wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Salmon with Pesto Butter
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, covered, to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Salmon with Pesto Butter?
Salmon with Pesto Butter is a quick seafood dish featuring pan-seared salmon topped with creamy homemade basil pesto butter.
How long does it take to make Salmon with Pesto Butter?
This recipe is quick and takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
What sides pair well with Salmon with Pesto Butter?
Consider serving this dish with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa for a balanced meal.
Can I customize the pesto used in Salmon with Pesto Butter?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like cilantro or sun-dried tomatoes for unique flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Salmon with Pesto Butter recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Plus, you can customize it by using different herbs or adding ingredients like lemon zest. Try this simple yet delicious dish today!
Salmon with Pesto Butter
Salmon with Pesto Butter is an exquisite dish that combines succulent pan-seared salmon fillets with a creamy homemade basil pesto butter. This flavorful entrée is not only quick to prepare—ready in just 20 minutes—but also serves as a delightful centerpiece for any meal, be it a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The vibrant flavors of the pesto butter elevate the tender fish, making each bite a delicious experience. Pair this dish with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons light olive oil
- 4 salmon fillets (4 ounces each, skin removed)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice from ½ lemon
Instructions
- Mix softened butter and basil pesto in a bowl until smooth.
- Pat salmon fillets dry, then season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add salmon fillets to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and top each fillet generously with pesto butter. Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (113g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
