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Easy Pesto Crusted Salmon Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

This Easy Pesto Crusted Salmon recipe features tender salmon filets topped with a flavorful basil pesto and a crunchy panko breadcrumb crust, finished to perfection in the oven. A quick sear before baking enhances the texture and adds a delicious golden crust, making this dish both elegant and simple to prepare in just 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Salmon and Seasoning

  • 4 6-ounce filets salmon, pat dry
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Morton kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Crust Mixture

  • 2 Tablespoons salted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Topping

  • 1/3 cup good quality basil pesto

For Searing

  • 2 Tablespoons avocado oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Season Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Season both sides of each salmon filet evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then set the filets aside to let the seasoning absorb.
  2. Prepare Panko Crust Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted salted butter, granulated garlic, and lemon zest. Stir well to evenly coat the breadcrumbs and infuse them with flavor.
  3. Apply Pesto Layer: Evenly spread a thick layer of basil pesto over the top surface of each salmon filet, ensuring good coverage for both flavor and to help the crust adhere.
  4. Add Panko Crust on Top: Press the prepared panko breadcrumb mixture firmly on top of the pesto-covered salmon filets, packing it tightly so it sticks well to the pesto layer.
  5. Optional Sear for Crispness: If desired, heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Gently place each salmon filet skin side down in the hot oil and sear for 3 to 4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. This step adds texture and flavor but can be skipped.
  6. Bake the Salmon: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 6 to 8 minutes if seared first. If you don’t sear, place the filets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10 to 14 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. The salmon should be cooked through and the crust golden brown.

Notes

  • Searing the salmon skin side down before baking is optional but recommended to achieve a crisp skin and enhance flavor.
  • If you skip searing, make sure to use a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and to evenly bake the crust.
  • Use a good quality basil pesto for the best flavor; homemade or store-bought both work well.
  • Check salmon doneness by gently flaking the thickest part; it should be opaque and easily flake apart.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the crust's crisp texture.

Find it online: https://glowcooks.com/easy-pesto-crusted-salmon-recipe/