Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Salmon with Pesto Butter recipe featuring tender seared salmon fillets topped with a rich basil pesto butter, perfect for a quick and elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pesto Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
For the Salmon
- 2 tablespoons light olive oil
- 4 fillets salmon, skin removed, 4 ounces each
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice from 1/2 of a lemon
Instructions
- Make the Pesto Butter: Add the softened unsalted butter and basil pesto to a small mixing bowl. Mix together thoroughly using a fork until the ingredients are well combined and form a smooth pesto butter. Set aside.
- Heat the Oil and Season Salmon: Place a skillet over medium heat and add the light olive oil. Season the salmon fillets evenly on both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Salmon Fillets: Place the salmon fillets skinless side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes without moving them until a golden brown crust forms. If the salmon sticks to the pan, allow it additional time or add a few tablespoons of water to gently release it before flipping.
- Flip and Add Pesto Butter: Carefully flip the salmon fillets over and evenly spread about one tablespoon of the prepared pesto butter atop each fillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking another 3 to 5 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily and is cooked through. Time will vary depending on fillet thickness.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked salmon to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining pesto butter from the pan over the fillets. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over each piece and serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding salmon to achieve a crispy crust.
- If salmon sticks to the pan, add a few tablespoons of water to help release it.
- Use fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor right before serving.
- You can adjust pesto butter quantity based on your taste preference.
- This recipe is best served immediately after cooking for optimal texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (approx. 4 oz)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
