A simple way that will likely improve the quality of your diet is to cook more at home. Regardless of tastes or goals, many people are looking for healthy foods that are EASY to make. Enter Pesto Salmon.
Pesto is very versatile. It is a great addition to any protein. Even if you’re not big on fish, it can be coated on pasta as a sauce or on a sandwich as a condiment. It can also be a heart-healthy option, especially when swapped for higher saturated fat, cream-based sauces or condiments like mayo. When it comes fish, the American Heart Association recommends eating two servings (3.5 ounces) of fish a week. Especially fatty fish like salmon.
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets or a large 1 1/2 pound fillet
- 4 cups of water
- Olive oil, for brushing
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons basil pesto (homemade is awesome, and store bought is totally acceptable, too)
- 1 tablespoon toasted and chopped pine nuts
- A few grates of lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325 F.
- Rub the bottom of a baking dish with olive oil. Pat each piece of salmon dry and place it on the pan.
- Sprinkle the salmon with fresh ground pepper and kosher salt. Spoon equal parts pesto over each salmon fillet.
- Cover pan with foil and bake the salmon for 10 minutes. Then remove the foil bake again for 3 to 6 minutes, depending on thickness, until just tender. A 1-inch thick fillet should cook in about 15 minutes total.
- Sprinkle it with chopped pine nuts and a bit of lemon zest. Serve immediately.
Pro tip: Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for 3 to 4 days and makes a great chilled protein source on salad, so if you enjoy this, double the recipe next time to have a few meals leftover for you and your family
Care you will love.
Looking for more ways to improve your health and wellness through nutrition? Schedule a visit with one of our registered dietitians. They can provide personalized recommendations and plans to keep your health on track!
