Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate? Introducing the Walnut Crusted Pesto Salmon—a culinary masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the health benefits of salmon. This dish not only boasts a crunchy walnut topping that adds a satisfying texture but is also infused with the aromatic goodness of basil pesto. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to impress with every bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that the salmon cooks evenly while allowing the walnut crust to become golden and crispy.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped walnuts and breadcrumbs. Mix them together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the fish.
- Spread a generous layer of pesto over the top of each salmon fillet. Make sure to cover the surface evenly to infuse the salmon with the rich flavors of basil, garlic, and cheese.
- Press the walnut and breadcrumb mixture onto the pesto-covered side of each salmon fillet. Ensure that the crust is packed well so it adheres during cooking.
- Place the coated salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, crust side up. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each fillet to help the crust brown and become crispy.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist.
- Serve the walnut crusted pesto salmon with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon fillets if possible. They tend to have a richer flavor and better texture than farmed varieties.
- Pesto Perfection: For the best flavor, use homemade pesto if you have the time. However, store-bought pesto can also work wonders—just ensure it's of good quality.
- Chop Walnuts Finely: To achieve a more cohesive crust, chop the walnuts finely so they mix well with the breadcrumbs and adhere better to the salmon.
- Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil not only helps the crust brown beautifully but also adds extra flavor. Be generous, but don’t overdo it!
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking is crucial. This step helps the juices settle, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.
- Pair with Fresh Sides: Complement this dish with fresh sides like a crisp salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the salmon.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs or spices to the walnut mixture for an extra kick. A pinch of garlic powder or paprika can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.With these tips, you're set to create a Walnut Crusted Pesto Salmon that will impress everyone at the table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 440kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 60mg
