Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta

Name: Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup pine nuts; 2 garlic cloves; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 lb salmon fillet; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Organic Cooking Recipes

I absolutely adore this Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta recipe! The combination of fresh flavors from the homemade pesto with succulent salmon creates a dish that sings summer on your plate. As someone who appreciates both simplicity and deliciousness in meals, this recipe has become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. It’s quick to prepare and makes a delightful dinner that pairs well with a nice glass of white wine. Trust me, you’ll want to make this dish over and over again!

Created by

The Chefzachfoods Team

Last updated on 2026-03-21T16:16:54.251Z

Creating this Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta was a delightful culinary adventure. I experimented with different herb blends for the pesto until I landed on the perfect mix of basil, garlic, and pine nuts that really enhances the salmon's flavor. It’s amazing how just a handful of fresh ingredients can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary.

During one of my attempts, I discovered that lightly toasting the pine nuts before blending them into the pesto adds a nutty depth that you simply can't achieve otherwise. It's a small step that makes a big difference, elevating this pasta to a whole new level of yum!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Fresh, vibrant flavors that burst with every bite
Quick to prepare for weeknight dinners or special occasions
Hearty salmon provides great nutrition while being absolutely delicious

Perfecting Your Pesto

The key to a vibrant pesto lies in the basil's freshness. When selecting basil, look for deep green leaves without any browning or wilting signs, as these indicate the herb's vitality. If fresh basil isn't available, you can use arugula or spinach in a pinch, though the flavors will shift slightly. Also, roasting the pine nuts before adding them to the food processor adds a lovely depth of flavor; just keep an eye on them to prevent burning—about 5-7 minutes at 350°F should do the trick.

When blending the pesto, pulse the ingredients initially to chop them evenly before adding the olive oil. This step ensures that your pesto has a consistent texture. If you prefer a chunkier pesto, hold off on adding all the olive oil or reserve a bit to drizzle in later, after the initial blend. Taste your pesto as you go, and don’t hesitate to adjust the salt or add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Salmon Cooking Techniques

Cooking the salmon perfectly makes all the difference in this dish. For grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and clean the grates to prevent sticking. You’ll want to achieve a golden crust without overcooking the fish; about 4-5 minutes per side is ideal, depending on thickness. If you're pan-searing, a cast-iron skillet provides excellent heat retention for a beautifully seared crust. To check for doneness, the salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

If you're aiming for a fuss-free weeknight meal, you can consider baking the salmon. Simply season and place the fillet on a parchment-lined baking sheet, baking at 375°F for 12-15 minutes. This method allows for no-fuss cleanup and keeps your kitchen cool. Don’t forget to reserve some of the cooked salmon skin for those who enjoy its crispy texture as an added textural element in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz penne pasta
2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup pine nuts
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup olive oil
1 lb salmon fillet
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Adjust seasoning as desired.

Cook the Salmon

Season salmon fillet with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-sear over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Flake the salmon into large pieces.

Combine and Serve

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the pesto until well-coated. Gently fold in the flaked salmon. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes to the pasta mixture.

Storing and Reheating

This Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can certainly make it ahead. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently; microwaving can dry out the salmon and pasta. Instead, consider warming it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or a bit of additional pesto to keep the textures appealing and the flavors vibrant.

If you plan to freeze the dish, it’s best to freeze the salmon and pasta separately. Pesto, however, can be frozen in ice cube trays. This method allows for easy portioning later. Once ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Remember that frozen salmon may lose some moisture; using the freshest quality salmon helps retain its texture post-freeze.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, creating a light contrast to the rich flavors. Alternatively, serve with crusty bread to mop up any leftover pesto on your plate. For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrients; just toss them in with the pasta and pesto to warm through.

If you want to elevate the dish for special occasions, a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top adds a delightful crunch and an Italian flair. Additionally, pairing with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio enhances the meal perfectly, as its crisp acidity balances the richness of the salmon and the nuttiness of the pesto. Enjoy experimenting with these ideas to make this dish uniquely yours!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works, but homemade offers a fresher flavor.

→ What other proteins can I use in this dish?

Shrimp, chicken, or even tofu can be great substitutes for salmon.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute regular penne with gluten-free pasta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.