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Salmon with Pesto Butter

Juicy Salmon with Pesto Butter for a Simple Gourmet Dinner

Elevate your dinner with this Salmon with Pesto Butter, a quick and gourmet dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 fillets
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 2 fillets Salmon Fillets Fresh, firm fillets for optimal tenderness and taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Light Olive Oil Helps prevent sticking and enhances richness.
  • to taste Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavor.
  • to taste Black Pepper Freshly cracked for depth.
For the Pesto Butter
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter High-quality butter for rich texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Basil Pesto Homemade or good store-bought variety.
For Serving
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens the dish before serving.
  • Toasted Pine Nuts or Fresh Basil Optional garnishes for presentation.

Equipment

  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small mixing bowl, blend together 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of basil pesto until creamy and well combined.
  2. Place a skillet over medium heat and pour in 2 tablespoons of light olive oil. Heat until shimmering.
  3. Generously season 2 salmon fillets on both sides with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  4. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet and cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Flip the salmon fillets and spread a layer of the prepared pesto butter over the top. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Continue cooking until the salmon turns opaque and flakes easily. Internal temperature should reach about 125-130°F.
  7. Transfer the cooked salmon to serving plates and drizzle with leftover pesto butter and fresh lemon juice. Garnish if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 800mgVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be paired with various sides like roasted potatoes or salads.

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