Baked Salmon with Pesto Tomatoes (Print version)

Vibrant salmon with basil pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes, baked for a healthy, satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavor.

# What you'll need:

→ Fish

01 - 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless

→ Produce

02 - 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

→ Sauce

04 - 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

→ Seasonings and Garnish

05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 - 1/2 lemon, sliced into wedges, for serving

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
02 - Carefully arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring each piece has sufficient space around it for even cooking.
03 - Generously spread 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of basil pesto over the top surface of each salmon fillet, coating them evenly.
04 - Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and, if using, the thinly sliced red onion around the salmon fillets on the baking sheet.
05 - Drizzle olive oil over the scattered tomatoes and onions. Season the entire dish, including the salmon and vegetables, with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
06 - Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes effortlessly with a fork and the tomatoes have softened. Note: Thicker fillets may require a slightly extended baking time.
07 - Remove the baked salmon from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for a bright finish.

# Expert suggestions:

01 -
  • It's incredibly fast, meaning you can have a gourmet-tasting meal on the table even on your busiest weeknights.
  • This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy fish without sacrificing an ounce of flavor, truly a perfect balance.
02 -
  • The quality of your pesto really shines through here, so invest in a good one or make your own for the best results.
  • Avoid overcooking the salmon; it goes from perfectly tender to dry in a flash, so keep an eye on it during those last few minutes.
03 -
  • Parchment paper isn't just for easy cleanup; it also helps prevent the delicate salmon from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring it keeps its beautiful shape.
  • Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking before serving; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fillet.

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