Irresistible Grilled Salmon with Creamy Pesto Sauce Recipe

The aroma of grilled salmon wafts through the air, teasing your senses with its smoky, buttery goodness. Paired with a creamy pesto sauce that dances on your palate, this dish promises a flavor explosion that’s nothing short of divine.

Imagine gathering around a sun-drenched table with friends, laughter spilling over as you savor each succulent bite of grilled salmon with creamy pesto sauce. Moroccan Spiced Salmon This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, joy, and delightful memories.

I remember the first time I served this grilled salmon with creamy pesto sauce at a family gathering; everyone was asking for seconds, and my uncle even tried to bribe me for the recipe! Cheesy Mushroom Chicken Alfredo. Sticky Honey Chicken.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: Mini Quiches for Brunch.

• Salmon Fillets: Look for fresh fillets with bright color and firm texture; they grill beautifully and deliver the best flavor.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and enhancing flavors.
• Fresh Basil: Choose vibrant green leaves; they provide the aromatic base for the creamy pesto.
• Pine Nuts: Lightly toast these to bring out their nutty flavor before blending into the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth to the pesto and a savory kick that complements the salmon.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives a punchy flavor; use whole cloves for blending or minced for quick prep. For more inspiration, check out this roasted garlic potatoes recipe.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the dish; it balances richness with zesty acidity.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings enhance all flavors; don’t be shy in seasoning both the fish and sauce!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it heats up, prepare your salmon by patting it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

Create the Pesto Sauce: In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and olive oil. Process until smooth and creamy.

Season the Salmon: Lightly brush both sides of the salmon fillets with olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors.

Grill the Salmon: Place salmon skin-side down on the grill grates. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side or until it flakes easily with a fork.

Add Pesto Sauce: Once cooked through, remove from grill and generously slather each fillet with creamy pesto sauce while still warm for maximum flavor absorption.

Serve immediately while hot! Pair this dish with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complete your meal experience.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful grilled salmon with creamy pesto sauce; it’s sure to become your new go-to recipe! For more inspiration, check out this creamy chicken recipes recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the salmon while preparing the pesto to infuse flavors. Grill on medium heat for about six minutes per side, ensuring a tender, flaky texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional basil with spinach or arugula for your pesto. Adding lemon zest enhances freshness, giving your grilled salmon an extra zing!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture.

I remember the first time I made grilled salmon with creamy pesto sauce for my family. They were so impressed, they asked if I could cater their next barbecue!

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and grilling.

What can I substitute for pine nuts in the pesto?

Try using walnuts or sunflower seeds; they add great flavor too.

How do I know when my salmon is done cooking?

Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

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Grilled Salmon with Creamy Pesto Sauce

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• Author: Ava Mack
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled salmon with creamy pesto sauce is a culinary delight that combines the rich, smoky flavor of perfectly grilled salmon with a vibrant, aromatic pesto. This dish is not only visually stunning but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. Each bite promises a burst of flavor that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy this delicious recipe that creates unforgettable dining experiences!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and olive oil; blend until smooth.
3. Season the salmon fillets by brushing with olive oil and sprinkling with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the salmon skin-side down for about 6-8 minutes per side or until it flakes easily.
5. Remove from grill and generously apply pesto on top while warm.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the salmon in lemon juice and herbs before grilling. Substitute basil with spinach or arugula for a different twist on pesto. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently.