Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This salmon and pesto pasta recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's ideal for busy weeknights, impressing both family and friends with minimal effort. This recipe ticks all the boxes for healthy meals, offering a fantastic source of protein and healthy fats. Let’s dive into this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference)
- 8 ounces pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade – see variations below!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
While the pasta is cooking, season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the pesto and lemon juice. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Serve
Add the cooked salmon to the pasta, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Fresh pesto is best: If you have the time, making your own pesto elevates the dish significantly. You can find countless homemade cooking recipes online.
- Adjust the pesto amount: The amount of pesto can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a more intense pesto flavor, add more.
- Add vegetables: Enhance your healthy meal by adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini to the pasta.
Variations:
- Spicy Salmon Pesto Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon-Garlic Salmon Pesto Pasta: Increase the amount of lemon juice and garlic for a brighter, more zesty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This salmon and pesto pasta is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both easy and healthy. It's a perfect recipe to add to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy!