Imagine sinking your fork into a perfectly baked salmon fillet, crowned with a vibrant pesto and adorned with crunchy pecans that transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Baked Salmon with Pesto and Pecans recipe is your ticket to impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll create a dish that looks like it came straight from a high-end restaurant's kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the pesto adhere better and ensures a crisp exterior.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Season each fillet with salt to enhance the natural flavor of the fish.
- Spread a generous layer of pesto evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, covering the entire surface. Use the back of a spoon to create an even coating.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the pesto-covered salmon, distributing them evenly to ensure each bite has a nutty crunch.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Carefully transfer the salmon fillets to serving plates. Garnish with additional chopped pecans or fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Always choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets with a bright color and firm texture.
- Pat the salmon completely dry before seasoning to ensure the pesto adheres perfectly and the fish achieves a beautiful golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness - salmon is perfectly cooked at 145°F (63°C).
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before sprinkling them over the pesto.
- If you prefer a more intense pesto flavor, let the salmon sit with the pesto for 15-20 minutes before baking.
- Don't overcook! Salmon can quickly become dry, so keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.
- Let the salmon rest after cooking to help retain its moisture and ensure maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
