Baked Salmon with Pesto

I still remember the first time I made this baked salmon with pesto crust—a happy accident when I wanted something fancy without fuss. That herby, crunchy topping took my simple salmon up a notch and instantly became a staple in my kitchen.

One evening I was short on time when unexpected guests arrived and this recipe saved the day—while the oven worked its magic, the inviting aroma had everyone already salivating at the table.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, good quality fillets for the best flavor and flaky texture
• Basil pesto: Homemade or store-bought work great, but fresh pesto gives a herbaceous punch
• Breadcrumbs: Panko adds the perfect crunch, gluten-free varieties are fine too
• Parmesan cheese: Grated fresh for a salty depth to the crust
• Olive oil: Helps bind the crust and adds richness
• Seasonings: Simple salt and pepper to let the flavors shine
• Garnish: Lemon wedges and fresh basil brighten the finished dish

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to a hot 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment or grease lightly to keep the salmon from sticking.

Season and Prep the Salmon:

Pat the fillets dry so the crust sticks well. Lay them skin-side down, then sprinkle salt and pepper evenly.

Mix the Pesto Crust:

In a small bowl, stir together the basil pesto, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and olive oil until it forms a crumbly paste that holds together just right.

Top the Salmon:

Spoon the pesto mixture onto each fillet, pressing gently so it forms a nice crust that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the salmon into the oven for about 15 to 18 minutes until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily when tested.

Rest and Serve:

Let the salmon rest a couple of minutes out of the oven. Serve with lemon wedges and scattered fresh basil leaves for that fresh zing.

Save

This dish became so much more than just food during family dinners, when the warmth of the meal sparked stories and laughter around the table, making memories that lingered long after the last bite.

Keeping It Fresh

Fresh basil in the pesto really lifts the flavors here. If you make your own pesto, using just-picked herbs and good olive oil can make your crust sing.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

I love pairing this salmon with simple roasted veggies or a crisp green salad so the pesto crust stays the star of the show without distraction.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once, when I was scrambling to host a last-minute dinner, this recipe came through beautifully. It’s easy enough to make on a weeknight but elegant enough to impress. A few tips before you go:

• Feel free to swap salmon for cod or trout with the same pesto topping
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed and still get great crunch
• Don’t skip the resting time—it helps the crust set so it won’t slide off when serving

Save

Thanks for spending a little time in the kitchen with me—hope this salmon brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.

Questions & Answers

→ Can I use other fish instead of salmon?

Yes, firm fish like cod or trout work well with the pesto crust, offering similar texture and flavor balance.

→ How do I make the pesto crust gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the crunchy texture without gluten.

→ What are alternative nuts for nut-free pesto?

Pumpkin seeds or omitting nuts entirely are excellent substitutes for a nut-free pesto option.

→ What side dishes complement this baked salmon?

Roasted vegetables, light salads, or rice pair wonderfully to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

→ How long should the salmon rest after baking?

Allow the salmon to rest for about 2 minutes after baking to let juices redistribute and enhance flavor.