Pan Seared Salmon With Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe

Name: Pan Seared Salmon With Lemon Basil Pesto
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted; 1 cup fresh basil leaf, packed; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (I use a generous pinch); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper; 12 ounces salmon fillets (2, 6-oz each); cooking spray

Servings: persons

1
Heat a dry skillet, over medium heat, and lightly toast pine nuts (gently toss and shake pan occasionally); then place in a food processor.
2
To the food processor, add basil and garlic; pulse just to combine.
3
With processor running, drizzle in olive oil, and process, scraping down sides once or twice with a rubber spatula, to desired consistency (I like it sort of chunky).
4
Add in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste; pulse to combine; set aside.
5
Wipe the salmon dry with paper towels (to allow a nice sear), then season lightly with salt and pepper.
6
Heat the skillet, over medium-high heat, then spray with cooking spray.
7
Cook salmon about 4 minutes per side or to desired doneness (I like it a little pinkish in the center since it will continue cooking a little when removed from the pan).
8
Serve salmon with pesto spooned over top.
9
Can also be served at room temperature.

534

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

Saved locally in your browser — visible only to you.

How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted, 1 cup fresh basil leaf, packed, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1/4 cup olive oil, and more.

Yes, Pan Seared Salmon With Lemon Basil Pesto falls under the Seafood category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Pan Seared Salmon With Lemon Basil Pesto

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions