Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta

Name: Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g penne pasta; 200g salmon fillets; 100g basil pesto; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Slim Recipes

When I first combined tender salmon with vibrant pesto and penne pasta, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor that leaves my taste buds dancing. The creaminess of the salmon pairs perfectly with the herbaceous notes of the pesto, creating a delightful balance. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special get-together, this pasta recipe never fails to impress and satisfy.

Created by

The Chefconnorfoods Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T15:51:27.812Z

Creating this Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta was an exploration of flavors that unexpectedly came together. I decided to use fresh ingredients, including basil pesto made right from scratch, to elevate the dish. The result was a stunning showcase of color and taste that left everyone at the table asking for more. I also discovered that cooking the salmon gently ensures it remains moist and flaky, enhancing the overall experience.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is how versatile it is. I often switch up the pasta type or add seasonal veggies, such as cherry tomatoes or asparagus, for extra freshness. The dish feels luxurious yet remains simple enough for any home cook, making it a reliable go-to for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Rich flavors of creamy pesto combined with tender salmon.
Nutritious and filling, making it great for weeknight dinners.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes.

The Role of Pesto

Pesto is the star of this dish, bringing a burst of color and flavor that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. The creamy texture of store-bought basil pesto becomes a sauce that clings beautifully to the penne, allowing each bite to be enriched with herbal undertones. If you prefer a homemade version, blend fresh basil with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and extra virgin olive oil until smooth. This not only enhances the freshness but also allows you to control the flavors and adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

In addition to its deliciousness, pesto provides healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, making this dish satisfying and nourishing. The vibrant green hue from basil adds a visual appeal, enticing your diners before they even take a bite. To elevate the dish further, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the pesto before tossing it with the pasta. This brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the salmon, creating a well-rounded dish.

Perfectly Cooking Salmon

Getting the salmon just right is crucial for the success of this dish. Start with skinless fillets to simplify the cooking process. When pre-seasoning, try to let the salmon sit with salt and pepper for a few minutes to absorb the flavors; this enhances the taste significantly. Cooking the salmon in an oiled skillet over medium-high heat allows for the development of a superbly seared exterior while remaining moist inside. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly flaky salmon.

If fresh salmon is unavailable, feel free to use frozen fillets. Just make sure to thoroughly thaw them prior to cooking for even results. A common troubleshooting tip is to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which lowers the temperature and can lead to steaming instead of searing. If you find your salmon sticks to the skillet, give it an extra minute before trying to flip; it often releases naturally when it's fully cooked on one side.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best features of this Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta is its adaptability. Feel free to throw in your favorite vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. If you want to add these, sauté them in the skillet after cooking the salmon until they are just tender before combining them with the pasta. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds additional textures and flavors to the dish.

Furthermore, pasta shapes are not set in stone. While penne works well, you can experiment with rigatoni, fusilli, or even whole wheat options to cater to different dietary preferences. You can also prepare this dish in advance; just store the separate components in the fridge and gently reheat them together before serving. Doing so allows the flavors to meld while ensuring you have a quick, delicious meal ready any night of the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta:

Main Ingredients

300g penne pasta
200g salmon fillets
100g basil pesto
50g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepared before starting to cook to streamline the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Salmon

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.

Combine Ingredients

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the cooked penne pasta and basil pesto. Toss well to combine and heat through. Flake the cooked salmon and fold it gently into the pasta.

Serve

Plate the pasta and salmon, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Be mindful not to overcook the salmon, as it can lose its tenderness.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time during busy weekdays, consider making the basil pesto in advance. Store it in an airtight container, covering the top with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation. It should stay fresh in the refrigerator for about a week. You can also cook the salmon ahead of time, as it reheats beautifully; just avoid putting it in the microwave to preserve its texture.

For an even quicker meal on the day of serving, cook the penne pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the pasta and combine it with the pesto and salmon. This way, you can enjoy a flavorsome dish without the last-minute rush.

Serving Ideas

Pair this dish with a crisp salad featuring arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, can complement the flavors beautifully, with its acidity cutting through the richness of the pesto and salmon.

For a more indulgent experience, serve the pasta in bowls topped with additional Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Adding toasted pine nuts on top brings a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Using store-bought pesto is a convenient option and can save time without compromising flavor.

→ What other proteins can I use instead of salmon?

Chicken or shrimp are great alternatives that can be cooked in a similar manner.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional value.