Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon Dinner Recipe

Introduction

This Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon Dinner is a simple, flavorful meal that comes together quickly. With tender salmon, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and aromatic pesto, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Cooking everything on one pan makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds skin-on salmon (thawed and cut into filets, if necessary)
• 2 large lemons (divided)
• 6.5 oz jar basil pesto, divided
• 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 oz shallots, sliced
• Fresh basil (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon filets on the baking sheet and zest one lemon evenly over the top.
2. Step 2: Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto over each filet using the back of a spoon or a butter knife.
3. Step 3: In a medium bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced shallots, and 2 tablespoons of pesto until the vegetables are well coated.
4. Step 4: Slice the second lemon into thin slices and add them to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
5. Step 5: Arrange the vegetable and lemon slices around the salmon filets on the baking sheet.
6. Step 6: Bake for 12 to 18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Step 7: Slice the first lemon into quarters and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the entire sheet pan. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use thick salmon filets for even cooking and a juicy center.
• Swap basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Add baby potatoes or green beans to the sheet pan for a more complete meal.
• Make gluten-free by double-checking your pesto ingredients.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the salmon. It’s best enjoyed fresh but keeps well for a quick next-day meal.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What can I serve with this sheet pan dinner?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or steamed rice to soak up the delicious pesto and lemon juices.

Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon Dinner Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 97 reviews

This Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon Dinner is an easy and flavorful weeknight meal featuring tender salmon filets topped with fresh basil pesto, roasted cherry tomatoes, shallots, and lemon slices. The dish comes together quickly on a single baking sheet for simple prep and cleanup, making it both delicious and convenient.

• Author: nova
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salmon

• 2 pounds skin-on salmon filets (thawed if necessary)
• Zest of 1 large lemon
• 4 tablespoons basil pesto (divided)
• 1 lemon, quartered (for serving)

Vegetables and Garnish

• 10 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 ounces shallots, sliced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Fresh basil leaves (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the salmon filets skin-side down on the prepared sheet. Zest one lemon evenly over the salmon to infuse fresh citrus aroma.
2. Apply Pesto to Salmon: Evenly spread 1 tablespoon of basil pesto over each salmon filet using the back of a spoon or a butter knife to ensure good coverage and flavor penetration.
3. Toss Vegetables with Pesto: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced shallots, and 2 tablespoons of basil pesto. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the pesto.
4. Add Lemon Slices to Vegetable Mix: Slice the second lemon into thin rounds and add them to the bowl with the pesto-coated vegetables. Toss gently again to integrate the lemon slices without bruising them.
5. Arrange Vegetables on Sheet: Spread the tossed vegetables and lemon slices evenly around the salmon filets on the baking sheet, making sure they are well distributed for even roasting.
6. Bake Until Salmon is Cooked Through: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 18 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part, or until it is pink and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Finish and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Slice the first lemon into quarters and drizzle the fresh lemon juice all over the salmon and roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, then serve immediately for a bright, flavorful meal.

Notes

• Use skin-on salmon filets to help keep the fish moist while baking.
• Check salmon doneness with a thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• Fresh basil pesto can be substituted with store-bought pesto for convenience.
• Feel free to swap cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes or halved bell peppers for variety.
• This recipe can be doubled or halved depending on the number of servings needed.

Keywords: sheet pan dinner, pesto salmon, easy salmon recipe, baked salmon with tomatoes, weeknight dinner, healthy salmon recipe