Salmon Pesto Pasta

A delightful fusion of creamy pesto, tender salmon, and perfectly cooked penne makes this dish a guaranteed favorite. It’s a simple, elegant pasta dinner that looks and tastes restaurant-quality but takes less than 30 minutes to prepare at home.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special to impress guests, this Salmon Pesto Pasta delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The rich basil pesto complements the flaky salmon beautifully, while the lemon juice adds a burst of freshness. Sprinkle with Parmesan and a few basil leaves, and you’ve got yourself a plate of comfort food bliss.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

• 7 oz cooked salmon (baked, grilled, or canned), flaked

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions:

1. Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and basil pesto. Let it gently simmer for 2–3 minutes.

5. Add the flaked cooked salmon and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir gently to combine and heat through, being careful not to break up the salmon too much.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Toss the cooked penne into the skillet and stir until the pasta is coated in the creamy pesto sauce.

8. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 540 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Salmon Pesto Pasta is the kind of recipe that hits all the right notes it’s rich, refreshing, herby, and just indulgent enough to feel special, without being complicated. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight staple or a dinner that feels just a bit more upscale, this dish fits the bill. Combining flaky salmon with the herbaceous kick of pesto and the luxuriousness of cream creates a silky pasta sauce that clings to every bite of penne. It’s easy enough for a Tuesday night but elegant enough to serve at your next small gathering.

In this article, we’ll explore everything that makes this recipe so lovable from ingredient pairings and nutritional highlights to cooking tips, variations, and pairing suggestions. If you’re a seafood lover or someone looking to add more fish into your diet without a heavy commitment, read on.

Why This Dish Works

There are a few key elements that make Salmon Pesto Pasta such a winning combination:

1. Balanced Flavors

The key to this dish’s appeal lies in its flavor profile. Salmon brings a rich, buttery depth; pesto adds a punch of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and cheese; while a splash of lemon cuts through the richness with brightness and acidity. The cream helps mellow out the pesto’s intensity and creates a luscious sauce that coats every noodle.

2. Textural Harmony

This dish isn’t just about flavor it’s also a play on texture. The penne offers that perfect chew, holding sauce in its ridges. Meanwhile, flaked salmon adds tender, delicate bites that contrast nicely with the dense pasta. Fresh Parmesan sprinkled on top provides just a bit of grit and tanginess to round out the texture experience.

3. Speed and Simplicity

The whole recipe can be made in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you still want something wholesome and satisfying. You don’t need special culinary skills or tools just a few fresh ingredients and a bit of time on the stovetop.

Health Benefits of Salmon Pasta

While it may feel indulgent, Salmon Pesto Pasta actually packs a number of health benefits:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is one of the richest sources of omega-3s, which support heart and brain health.
• Protein: A great source of lean protein, salmon helps you feel full and supports muscle health.
• Basil & Garlic: The ingredients in pesto, such as fresh basil and garlic, offer antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Portion-Controlled Creaminess: Using just a small amount of cream gives the dish its luxurious feel without being overly heavy or greasy.
• Balance: You’re getting a mix of healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, making it a well-rounded meal.

To boost the health factor even more, you could use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta and add a handful of leafy greens like spinach or arugula to the sauce.

Ingredient Pairings and Add-Ons

Though delicious on its own, this recipe can be easily customized to match your pantry or dietary needs.

Veggie Additions:

• Cherry Tomatoes: Add color, sweetness, and a burst of juice.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in greens at the end to wilt gently into the warm pasta.
• Zucchini or Asparagus: Sautéed or roasted veggies make great additions for extra nutrients.

Protein Swaps:

• Grilled Shrimp: A great alternative if you’re not in the mood for salmon.
• Chicken Breast: For a land-based protein, grilled or poached chicken works well with pesto.
• Tofu: Marinated and pan-fried tofu offers a plant-based alternative.

Cheese Options:

• Parmesan is classic, but pecorino romano adds a saltier bite, while goat cheese offers a tangy, creamy alternative.

Tips for Best Results

Use Quality Ingredients

Because the dish is relatively simple, the quality of your ingredients really matters. A good-quality pesto (or homemade), fresh salmon, and a high-protein pasta like bronze-cut penne will elevate the overall dish.

Don’t Overcook the Salmon

If you’re cooking the salmon from raw, keep an eye on it. Overcooked salmon can become dry and rubbery. You want it to be just cooked through and still moist and tender.

Reserve Pasta Water

When draining the pasta, reserve a cup of the starchy water. It’s great for loosening the sauce if it becomes too thick and helps it cling to the pasta better.

Finish with Freshness

A squeeze of lemon and some fresh basil just before serving really brighten the dish and add a layer of freshness that makes a difference.

Serving Suggestions

Salmon Pesto Pasta is satisfying on its own, but you can complete the meal with a few complementary sides and drinks:

• Side Salad: A crisp arugula or romaine salad with a simple vinaigrette works great to balance the creamy pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty bread with garlic butter is a classic pairing.
• Roasted Veggies: Try some balsamic-glazed carrots or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Wine Pairing

Go for a crisp white wine with good acidity like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you prefer red, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir—its earthiness pairs surprisingly well with salmon and pesto.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to put a twist on this dish, here are a few variations to try:

• Pesto Variants: Try sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a different flavor.
• Pasta Types: Swap penne for fusilli, fettuccine, or even tortellini for a fun twist.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle kick.
• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream for a healthier alternative with a slight tang.

Storage and Reheating

This dish stores surprisingly well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Note: Reheating may change the texture of the salmon slightly, but it will still be flavorful and satisfying.

Conclusion

Salmon Pesto Pasta is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients, when treated with care, can come together to make something special. It’s fast, elegant, deeply flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making it for a quiet night in or a casual dinner party, this dish never fails to impress.

From its rich creaminess and vibrant herbaceousness to the delicate flakes of tender salmon, every bite offers something satisfying. Once you try it, it’s sure to earn a regular spot in your meal rotation.

If you’re seeking a recipe that’s both comforting and refined, Salmon Pesto Pasta is your go-to. Minimal effort, maximum flavor that’s the kind of cooking we can all get behind.