This Pesto Butter Salmon is a tasty way to enjoy fish! It’s rich and buttery, with a burst of flavor from the pesto. You’ll love how quick it is to prepare!
I like to serve it with some rice or veggies on the side. It makes dinner feel special without the fuss. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this one! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star of this dish! You can use any cut you like, such as fillets or steaks. If salmon isn’t available, consider using trout or tilapia for a lighter option.
Pesto: Store-bought pesto is convenient and tasty, but homemade offers fresher flavors. You can swap basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto or even a spinach pesto for a different spin.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control saltiness. If you want to keep it dairy-free, use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative instead. The result will still be delicious!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is my go-to for flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. If you’re sensitive to garlic, try using shallots for a milder taste.
How Do I Grill Salmon Perfectly?
Grilling salmon can be a bit tricky, but these tips will help you get it just right!
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. A hot grill helps prevent sticking.
- Oil the grill or the salmon lightly to keep it from sticking.
- Cook skin-side down first; this allows the skin to render fat and crisp up nicely.
- Check for doneness by gently pressing the salmon; it should flake easily and be opaque inside. Aim for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Add the pesto butter in the last few minutes; it will melt and soak into the fish!
How to Make Pesto Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fantastic dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 10-12 minutes for cooking, depending on how thick the salmon fillets are. In just about 20-25 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a scrumptious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This step is crucial to get those nice grill marks! Don’t forget to lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent the salmon from sticking.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillets dry. This helps them get a nice sear. Season both sides liberally with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Simple seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
3. Mix the Pesto Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, basil pesto, and minced garlic. Stir well until everything is nicely mixed together. This flavorful mixture will give your salmon an incredible taste!
4. Grill the Salmon:
Now it’s time to place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down (if they have skin). Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is just cooked through and has lovely grill marks. Keep an eye on them—it’s quick!
5. Add the Pesto Butter:
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, generously spread some of your pesto butter mix over the top of each salmon fillet. This will melt and seep into the salmon, adding moisture and flavor as they finish cooking.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the grill and transfer the fillets to serving plates. If desired, sprinkle fresh grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra layer of flavor. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil and add some lemon wedges on the side for a nice zing!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your pesto butter salmon immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables or rice. Dive in and enjoy the rich, herbaceous flavors that this dish has to offer!
Can I Substitute Different Fish for Salmon?
Absolutely! You can use other types of fish like trout or tilapia, which will also pair beautifully with the pesto butter. Just be mindful of cooking times; thinner fillets may require less grilling time.
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still delicious! If you have time, homemade pesto can elevate the dish even more, but either option will work well.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’d like some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your pesto butter mixture or serving it with a side of spicy chili oil. This will add an exciting kick to the flavor profile!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a low heat in a skillet to avoid drying out the fish. A splash of lemon juice can help refresh the flavors!
