Salmon with Pesto Butter Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s effortlessly impressive yet wonderfully comforting, this Salmon with Pesto Butter Recipe is an absolute winner. I’ve always loved how the richness of the butter blends so perfectly with the fresh, herbal notes of basil pesto—it’s like a little flavor party on your plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or want something a bit special for guests, this recipe has become one of my go-tos for a reason.

One thing I adore about this Salmon with Pesto Butter Recipe is how quickly it comes together without sacrificing any of that vibrant, fresh taste. You’ll find the salmon stays beautifully moist, and the buttery pesto topping melts into every flaky bite. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Salmon with Pesto Butter Recipe features a handful of fresh ingredients that work beautifully together, balancing rich butter, aromatic basil pesto, and tender salmon. When shopping, look for good-quality pesto—homemade or from a reputable brand—and fresh, firm salmon fillets for the best results.

• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth pesto butter.
• Basil pesto: I like using a fresh-tasting pesto with quality basil and pine nuts for that authentic flavor vibe.
• Light olive oil: Use a neutral olive oil to sear the salmon without overpowering its flavor.
• Salmon fillets: Skin removed so you get that perfect sear and buttery topping absorption.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the salmon’s natural flavors.
• Black pepper: Freshly cracked is best to add a subtle kick without overwhelming.
• Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the whole dish just before serving.

Variations

I love making this dish my own depending on what’s in the pantry or who I’m cooking for. Feel free to get creative with your pesto butter or salmon preparation—it’s your kitchen adventure!

• Swap the pesto: I’ve tried sun-dried tomato pesto or cilantro-lime pesto for a fun twist, and it totally works.
• Dairy-free version: Use a plant-based butter alternative and a vegan pesto if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Herb mix: Adding chopped fresh parsley or dill to the pesto butter can brighten flavors.
• Cooking method: I’ve gently baked the salmon with dollops of pesto butter on top for a fuss-free oven method.

How to Make Salmon with Pesto Butter Recipe

Step 1: Make the Pesto Butter

Start by combining your softened unsalted butter and basil pesto in a small bowl. I like to use a fork to mash them together until they’re beautifully blended and creamy. This step is so quick but so important because it ensures every bite of salmon gets that lovely herby butter magic.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon Fillets

Heat the light olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and season your salmon fillets generously with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides. Place the salmon skin-side down if your fillets have skin, or simply smooth side down if not, and let it cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes. I’ve learned the hard way that trying to flip too early will cause sticking—if it’s sticking, just give it an extra minute or two, and it’ll release when it’s ready. In a pinch, adding a tablespoon or two of water to the pan helps the fillets loosen without tearing.

Step 3: Add Pesto Butter and Finish Cooking

Flip the salmon fillets gently and spread about a tablespoon of that luscious pesto butter evenly on top of each piece. Lower your heat to medium-low and let the salmon cook for another 3-5 minutes depending on thickness. You’ll see the salmon turning flaky and opaque—that’s when it’s perfectly cooked. The butter will melt over the salmon, infusing it with that incredible pesto flavor.

Step 4: Plate and Serve

Transfer the salmon to your serving plates and drizzle any leftover butter from the pan over the top for extra richness. Right before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over each fillet—this brightens everything and keeps the flavors lively. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Salmon with Pesto Butter Recipe

Garnishes

I like topping the salmon with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh basil leaves to echo that basil pesto flavor. A few lemon wedges on the side not only add visual appeal but allow everyone to adjust the citrus brightness to their taste.

Side Dishes

This Salmon with Pesto Butter Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like garlic roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette. Sometimes, I throw together some quinoa tossed with fresh herbs for a wholesome, colorful plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, arranging the salmon fillets on a bed of wilted spinach or arugula dressed lightly with lemon makes a stunning presentation. I’ve also served this with a drizzle of balsamic glaze around the plate for a touch of elegance that guests always ask about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge, ideally within two hours of cooking. It usually stays fresh for up to two days, and I make sure to keep the leftover pesto butter separate if possible so it doesn’t soften the fish too much.

Freezing

While I don’t often freeze cooked salmon, this recipe does freeze pretty well if you wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or use a vacuum sealer. For best flavor, freeze the pesto butter separately and add fresh butter when reheating.

Reheating

I gently reheat leftover salmon in a low oven (about 275°F) wrapped in foil to keep it moist, adding a small dollop of pesto butter on top before warming. Alternatively, reheating in a skillet over low heat works great—just watch it closely so you don’t overcook it.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Salmon with Pesto Butter Recipe is one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together so simply—something I always appreciate after a busy day. I love how the fresh pesto flavor wakes up the salmon, and it’s just the right balance of rich and bright. Give it a try for your next meal; I promise it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!

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