How do I make sheet pan pesto salmon at home?

To make sheet pan pesto salmon, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet. Spread a generous layer of pesto sauce evenly over each fillet. Add sliced vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini around the salmon for a complete meal. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. This method is simple, quick, and results in flavorful, moist salmon with minimal cleanup.

What type of pesto is best for sheet pan salmon?

Traditional basil pesto works well for sheet pan salmon, offering a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the fish. You can also try variations like sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto for different tastes. Choose a pesto with good consistency—thick enough to coat the salmon without running off—to ensure the flavors stay on the fillets during baking.

Can I prepare sheet pan pesto salmon in advance?

Yes, you can marinate salmon with pesto in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the fish. However, avoid spreading pesto too early on the baking sheet to prevent sogginess. Keep the salmon refrigerated after applying pesto and bake it fresh for the best texture and taste.

What sides pair well with sheet pan pesto salmon?

Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli make excellent sides. You can cook these on the same sheet pan alongside the salmon for convenience. Other good options include quinoa, couscous, or a fresh green salad. These sides provide a balance of nutrients and complement the pesto’s vibrant flavor.

How do I know when sheet pan pesto salmon is fully cooked?

Sheet pan pesto salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) measured with a food thermometer. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Overcooking can dry out the salmon, so check it around the 12-minute mark if your fillets are average thickness. Using a thermometer ensures safe and perfectly cooked salmon every time.

Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Crispy Roasted Lemon Potatoes

Name: Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 pound fingerling or baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved); – 1 tablespoon olive oil; – 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest; – 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; – 1/2 teaspoon salt; – 1/2 teaspoon pepper; – 1 pound salmon; – 1/4 cup pesto; – Chopped herbs (like basil or parsley) for topping

Description

🐟 Enjoy a wholesome and flavorful dinner with this Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon paired with zesty roasted lemon potatoes.
🍋 This easy one-pan recipe delivers a satisfying, protein-packed meal with minimal cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

– 1 pound fingerling or baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved)

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest

– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon pepper

– 1 pound salmon

– 1/4 cup pesto

– Chopped herbs (like basil or parsley) for topping

Instructions

1-Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet for easy cleanup trust me, this saves time later!

2-Toss 1 pound fingerling or baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved) with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

3-Roast the potatoes for about 20 minutes until theyre golden and crispy doesnt that sound amazing?

4-Push the potatoes to one side, place 1 pound salmon skin-side down on the pan, and season with a bit more salt and pepper.

5-Spread 1/4 cup pesto over the salmon for that flavorful kick, then roast everything together for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily.

6-Garnish with chopped herbs like basil or parsley before serving boom, its finished and ready to enjoy!

Notes

🥔 Start roasting the potatoes first to ensure they become crispy and fully cooked before adding the salmon.
🌿 Use fresh or good-quality store-bought pesto to enhance the flavor.
⏲️ Check that potatoes are nearly tender before adding the salmon to avoid undercooked potatoes or overcooked fish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450 kcal (estimated)
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 600 mg (estimated)
Fat: 25 g (estimated)
Saturated Fat: 4 g (estimated)
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g (estimated)
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g (estimated)
Fiber: 3 g (estimated)
Protein: 35 g (estimated)
Cholesterol: 70 mg (estimated)

Keywords: Sheet pan, pesto salmon, roasted potatoes, one-pan dinner