Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving something both bright and comforting, this Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe is absolutely the way to go. It hits that perfect balance of tender, flaky salmon and rich, herbaceous pesto tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. I love this recipe because it’s quick enough for a weeknight but fancy enough to impress guests – trust me, your family and friends will go crazy for it!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here are straightforward but work beautifully together. I always recommend fresh pesto if you can get it – it makes a huge difference! Also, the salmon can be skin-on or off based on your preference; both work great.

• Spaghetti: Classic and simple, you want good-quality pasta to hold up well with the sauce.
• Raw Salmon: Fresh and wild-caught if possible – boneless and either with or without skin works fine.
• Avocado Oil: I use this because it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor perfect for roasting salmon.
• Cajun Seasoning: Gives a nice spicy edge; if you like it milder, just cut the amount in half.
• Sea Salt: Enhances flavors without overpowering.
• Pesto Sauce: Basil pesto is traditional here, but you can use sun-dried tomato or even a walnut version.
• Pecorino or Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty richness to the pasta and finish.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A must for layering spice and aroma.
• Lemon: Adds freshness and cuts through the richness at serving.

Variations

I love making this salmon pesto pasta recipe my own by switching things up depending on the season or what’s in my fridge. Feel free to add your favorite touches to make it truly yours!

• Swap Pesto Base: I often try arugula or kale pesto for a peppery twist – it adds a new dimension without losing that fresh vibe.
• Add Veggies: Roasted cherry tomatoes or steamed asparagus are my go-to additions for extra color and nutrition.
• Change Protein: Sometimes I substitute salmon for shrimp or chicken, but honestly, salmon brings that unbeatable richness.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the pecorino and toss in toasted pine nuts for crunch instead.

How to Make Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, rinse and pat dry your salmon, then cut it into even pieces about 1 ½ inches thick—that way they cook evenly and retain moisture. Toss the salmon pieces with avocado oil, Cajun seasoning, and sea salt until they’re evenly coated. I discovered that tossing the salmon beforehand and letting it rest in the fridge helps the flavors really soak in without drying out, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti and Reserve Pasta Water

Boil your spaghetti according to the package instructions (about 11-13 minutes), and be sure to save a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining. This liquid is pure magic for loosening the pesto and helps coat your pasta with just the right consistency – don’t skip saving it!

Step 3: Roast the Salmon

While the pasta cooks, lay your salmon pieces spaced out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 6-8 minutes; the timing really depends on how thick your pieces are, so keep an eye on it. You want the salmon to be opaque and flaky but still moist inside. This roasting method keeps the fish tender without fuss, and it’s one of my favorite techniques.

Step 4: Toss Pasta with Pesto and Cheese

Drain your spaghetti and return it to the pot. Add the pesto, pecorino cheese, a generous twist of black pepper, and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, adding more pasta water to achieve a silky, luscious sauce that clings to every strand. This step is where the magic happens — that simple splash of water and cheese really brings it all together.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Serve your pesto-coated pasta topped with those perfectly roasted salmon pieces. Add extra pecorino, freshly ground black pepper, and a few lemon wedges on the side for that essential brightness that balances the rich flavors. When I first tried this combination, the lemon transformed the whole dish, so don’t skip it!

How to Serve Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

When I serve this dish, I like to sprinkle extra pecorino cheese and cracked black pepper right on top — it amps up the cheesy, peppery notes even more. A few torn basil leaves add a fresh pop of green and aroma, and I NEVER skip the lemon wedges, which bring a fresh zing that’s so welcome with rich salmon and pesto.

Side Dishes

To keep the meal balanced, I often pair this salmon pesto pasta recipe with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil or some roasted seasonal veggies like asparagus or broccoli. Crusty garlic bread is always a hit, too — it’s great for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like to plate the pasta in shallow bowls and nestle the salmon pieces on top, then drizzle a little extra pesto or lemon-infused olive oil around the edge. Adding edible flowers or microgreens makes the dish feel extra celebratory — and honestly, it tastes just a bit better when it looks this good!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your salmon pesto pasta, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh for 1-2 days. I always make sure the pasta is slightly drier before storing (less sauce) to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.

Freezing

While I don’t usually freeze this dish because creamy pesto pasta can separate a bit, you can freeze the roasted salmon separately if you want to prep in advance. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. This keeps flavors vibrant and the salmon intact. Avoid microwaving if you can — I find it makes the pesto lose its brightness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe has become one of my favorite go-to dishes whenever I want something that feels both special and effortless. The ease of roasting the salmon and tossing everything together with fragrant pesto is just pure comfort food magic. If you try it, I’m sure you’ll love how the flavors dance together, and you’ll reach for this recipe again and again – I know I do!

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