This Baked Salmon with Basil Walnut Pesto is a vibrant, fresh dish that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. The rich, flaky salmon pairs beautifully with the aromatic basil and the nutty texture of the walnuts, creating a balanced and indulgent experience.
The pesto topping not only elevates the fish but adds a satisfying layer of freshness and depth. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and bold flavors. The combination of ingredients is perfect for those who love quick and healthy meals without compromising on taste.
Full Recipe:
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4 salmon fillets
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1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
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1/4 cup walnuts
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1/2 cup olive oil
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2 cloves garlic
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1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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In a food processor, combine basil, walnuts, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pulse until a smooth pesto forms.
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Spread the pesto generously over each salmon fillet.
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Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
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Remove from the oven and garnish with extra basil leaves before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Baked Salmon with Basil Walnut Pesto: A Flavorful, Healthy Dish
Baked salmon with basil walnut pesto is an incredibly delicious and healthy dish that blends rich flavors with simplicity. The tender, flaky salmon pairs perfectly with a fragrant basil walnut pesto, creating a satisfying meal that’s both light and indulgent at the same time. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors, complex flavors, and effortless preparation. In this article, we’ll dive into why this dish is such a great choice for various occasions and explore the numerous health benefits, cooking tips, and serving ideas.
The Appeal of Baked Salmon with Basil Walnut Pesto
Salmon is known for being a healthy, flavorful fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Combining this with a pesto made from fresh basil and walnuts elevates the dish to new heights. Pesto itself is a classic Italian sauce, but the walnut addition offers a rich, nutty flavor and additional nutritional benefits. This combination creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes that make baked salmon with basil walnut pesto an irresistible choice for any meal. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for both casual dinners and elegant gatherings.
Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is often considered one of the healthiest fish you can eat, and for good reason. It’s an excellent source of protein and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own, so it’s important to incorporate them into your diet. Additionally, salmon is a great source of vitamin D, which plays a key role in supporting bone health and immune system function. The high-quality protein in salmon helps to build and repair tissues, making it an excellent choice for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.
Nutritional Benefits of Basil Walnut Pesto
While salmon provides the foundation of this dish, the basil walnut pesto adds a whole new layer of nutrition. Basil is not only aromatic and flavorful, but it’s also packed with antioxidants, which help to fight off free radicals and reduce inflammation. It also provides small amounts of important vitamins like vitamin K, which is crucial for bone health, and vitamin A, which supports immune function and eye health.
Walnuts, the key ingredient in the pesto, bring their own set of benefits. They’re rich in healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, making them a great complement to the salmon. In addition to omega-3s, walnuts are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber. These nutrients help to reduce cholesterol levels, support heart health, and even improve cognitive function. Combining these ingredients in the pesto not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish.
Why This Dish is a Great Choice for Any Occasion
There are many reasons why baked salmon with basil walnut pesto is a fantastic option for any meal. First and foremost, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s light yet filling, and the combination of fresh herbs, nuts, and flaky salmon ensures that you’re getting a well-balanced meal.
This dish is also incredibly versatile. It can be served for a quick weeknight dinner, or dressed up for a special occasion like a dinner party or holiday meal. The vibrant colors of the basil pesto and the golden-brown salmon create an attractive presentation that will surely impress your guests. It’s also a great choice for anyone who is looking for a gluten-free or low-carb meal, as it is naturally free from grains and high in healthy fats and proteins.
Another advantage of baked salmon with basil walnut pesto is how easy it is to prepare. The salmon cooks quickly in the oven, and the pesto can be made in a matter of minutes using a food processor. This means you can prepare a delicious, healthy meal in less than 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Tips for the Best Results
While this dish is relatively simple to prepare, there are a few tips that can help ensure the best possible outcome.
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Choosing Fresh Salmon: When selecting your salmon, look for fillets with firm, moist flesh and a rich, pink color. Wild-caught salmon is often preferred for its superior taste and higher omega-3 content, though farmed salmon can also work well in this recipe.
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Making the Pesto: For the freshest flavor, use high-quality basil and walnuts. Toasting the walnuts lightly before blending them into the pesto can help enhance their flavor, giving your pesto a more robust, nutty taste.
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Baking the Salmon: Salmon is best baked at a moderate temperature (around 400°F or 200°C). This ensures the fish cooks through evenly without becoming dry. If you like your salmon slightly crispy on top, you can broil it for the last minute of cooking.
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Don’t Overcook: Salmon can go from perfectly flaky to dry and tough if overcooked, so be sure to keep an eye on it as it bakes. A good rule of thumb is to bake salmon for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
Baked salmon with basil walnut pesto can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas for side dishes that pair wonderfully with this dish:
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes complement the rich flavors of the salmon while adding more fiber and nutrients to the meal.
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Salads: A fresh, leafy green salad with a simple vinaigrette is a light and refreshing side that balances the richness of the salmon. You could also add some avocado or cherry tomatoes to the salad for extra flavor.
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Grains: For a more substantial meal, serve the salmon with a side of quinoa, couscous, or a grain of your choice. These options add a nice texture contrast to the dish while keeping it wholesome and filling.
If you’re serving this for a special occasion, consider garnishing the salmon with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of lemon juice for a pop of color and brightness.
Conclusion
Baked salmon with basil walnut pesto is a dish that combines incredible taste, impressive presentation, and numerous health benefits. The salmon provides a high-quality source of protein and healthy fats, while the pesto made with basil and walnuts adds rich flavors and additional nutrients. Whether you’re preparing a meal for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this dish is easy to make, versatile, and sure to please any palate. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal without compromising on taste. Next time you’re in the mood for a light yet satisfying dinner, give this recipe a try, and you’ll surely fall in love with the perfect balance of flavors.