This Salmon Pesto Pasta is a tasty treat that combines soft pasta with flavorful pesto and tender salmon. It’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
You can never go wrong with this dish! I love how the creamy pesto clings to the pasta—so yum! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy fish without a fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini works great in this dish because it holds the pesto well. If you prefer, you can swap for penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Each type gives a different twist to the texture!
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best, but you can also use canned or leftover cooked salmon if you’re short on time. Just flake it before adding to the pasta for an easy alternative.
Pesto: Homemade pesto is fantastic if you have the time. However, store-bought is a wonderful shortcut! If you’re short on basil, you can use spinach or arugula for a different flavor profile.
Feta cheese: Feta adds a nice creaminess and tang. If you don’t have it, try goat cheese or even ricotta for a softer taste. Nutritional yeast could be a great dairy-free option, adding cheesy flavor!
How Do I Cook Salmon Without Drying It Out?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky! Here’s how to do it without losing tenderness:
- First, make sure to season your salmon with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Use medium-high heat to sear the salmon; this creates a nice crust while keeping the inside moist.
- Cook it skin side down first if it has skin. This will help keep it from sticking to the pan.
- Watch the time! About 4-5 minutes on each side is usually perfect, but every stove is different. Look for pinkness in the center as a guide.
Let the salmon rest a few minutes before serving. This helps maintain its juiciness!
How to Make Salmon Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your choice of pasta)
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Pesto Sauce:
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper or tomato
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional:
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Salmon Pesto Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Salmon:
While the pasta is cooking, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin side down if they have skin. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and lightly browned. Once done, remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes.
3. Combine Pasta with Pesto:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the basil pesto, diced red onion, and diced red bell pepper or tomato. Toss everything together well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Divide the pesto pasta among bowls or plates. Top each serving with a salmon fillet. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over both the pasta and salmon for added flavor.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finish it off by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. If you like, serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch!
Enjoy this delicious Salmon Pesto Pasta warm as a satisfying and fresh meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry to ensure it cooks evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can replace the salmon with grilled or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Tofu or chickpeas can also add protein while keeping it vegetarian!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of olive oil or a little water to keep the pasta from drying out.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add spinach, arugula, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in when mixing the pasta with the pesto!