Name: 5-Ingredient Pesto Baked Salmon
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 Servings
Cuisine: Other

April 29, 2025

Five ingredients lend a huge amount of flavor to this quick pesto baked salmon. The recipe is a Yummly original created by Sara Mellas.

From the Cook

1/2

WarningMilk and 6 other allergens identified

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Gently pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place on the baking sheet, skin side down.

Sprinkle the tops of the salmon with the salt and black pepper.

Spoon an equal amount of basil pesto sauce over each salmon fillet. Spread to coat each fillet with an even layer.

Bake the salmon on middle rack of oven until it flakes easily with a fork, 12-15 minutes.

Check to see that salmon is done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over salmon if desired. Serve immediately. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days.

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My Notes

Whether it's a recipe tweak or an inspiration burst — jot it down here.

Pesto Coverage Technique 🥄
Use the back of a spoon to evenly spread pesto across the salmon, ensuring every inch gets maximum flavor coverage and moisture.
Salmon Skin Selection 🐟
Choose skin-on salmon fillets for better moisture retention and easier handling during baking, which helps prevent drying out.
Lemon Zest Enhancement 🍋
Grate fresh lemon zest over the pesto before baking to intensify the citrus notes and add a bright, aromatic dimension to the dish.
Baking Sheet Preparation 🥘
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup after cooking.
Pesto Freshness Hack 🌿
If using store-bought pesto, brighten it by mixing in a tablespoon of fresh basil leaves just before spreading on the salmon.