Quick Salmon Pesto Pasta

Healthy Salmon Pesto Pasta

Finding ways to add salmon to your meal rotation is a healthy way to get more omega 3’s and protein. This pasta recipe includes both and is a delicious way to serve them!

Make this recipe lighter by omitting the cream or half & half and using reserved pasta water instead. This is one way to turn this into a healthy salmon pesto pasta recipe.

Ingredients for Pesto Salmon Pasta

If you can make pasta and cook salmon you can combine the two into this pesto salmon pasta recipe. To make this delicious salmon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• penne pasta: any type of pasta will work with this recipe.
• fresh salmon: about 8 to 12 ounces, or 2-3 salmon fillets.
• salt and pepper: for seasoning.
• olive oil: coconut oil or avocado oil is a great option as well.
• butter: if you use salted butter, you can omit adding in the extra salt.
• onion: slice it thin for the best texture.
• cherry tomatoes: juicy and sweet, they bring the flavor of summer into the recipe no matter when you make it!
• heavy cream or half & half: either option works great -lighten up the dish by using pasta water instead.
• pesto: you can make your own pesto or use storebought.
• lemon: fresh lemon juice adds a delicious contrast and acidity.
• fresh basil shreds: for garnish and flavor.

How to Make Salmon Pesto Pasta

Did I mention that this is a fast way to cook salmon? (and a delicious one!) This recipe is one of our “regulars” at our house because it’s just so good and easy to make.

Here is how to cook salmon pasta with pesto perfectly every single time:

1. Cook the pasta
   Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain pasta and set aside.
2. Prep the salmon for cooking
   Pat dry salmon fillets with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Cook the veggies
   In a large skillet, heat oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook for about 4 minutes until they begin to look translucent and are soft Add the cherry tomatoes and cook with the onions for about 3 minutes, right before they begin to pop but they are beginning to look wrinkly. Remove from the pan onto a large plate.
4. Cook the salmon
   Add the salmon to the pan and cook, skin-side-up first to get a good sear on the top side, for 3 minutes. Flip, and continue cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the meat separates with a fork. Remove from the pan onto the plate and remove the skin if needed.
5. Prep the pan for sauce
   Remove any excess oil from the pan but leave the tidbits at the bottom.
6. Make the sauce
   Add the cream to the pan and ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Bring it to a simmer, and with a wooden spatula, scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the pesto and mix to incorporate it with the sauce.
7. Turn it into a meal
   Break up the salmon into large pieces and add them to the pan along with the tomatoes and onions. Toss the cooked pasta in, and mix to coat everything with the sauce. If you want your pasta to be saucier, add a little more reserved pasta water to the pan and mix.
8. The finishing touches
   Right before serving, squeeze ½ a lemon on top of the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
9. Serve
   Serve with fresh basil shreds and parmesan cheese, if desired.

Can You Reheat Leftovers?

Yes, you can reheat the leftovers of this salmon pasta dish, making sure to carefully stir as you heat it up so your salmon doesn’t dry up.

You can reheat it in the oven at 350F for about 20 minutes, adding a little liquid over the top for moisture.

In a pan, add a little oil or spray over medium heat, place the pasta in the pan, and stir as it heats up, adding a little liquid (water or milk) to bring moisture back into the dish.

More Salmon Recipes to Enjoy

Now that we’ve all got salmon on the brain, add some more of my favorite salmon dishes to your meal-planning radar!

• Air Fryer Salmon
• Baked Salmon and Asparagus
• Baked Salmon in Foil
• Easy Salmon Salad Recipe
• Baked Honey Salmon in Foil