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Salmon Pesto Pasta

Salmon Pesto Pasta is a flavorful, vibrant dish that combines the richness of salmon with the fresh, herbaceous flavors of pesto sauce. The tender salmon is paired with al dente pasta and tossed in a creamy pesto sauce that adds a burst of flavor with every bite.
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Equipment

  • - Large pot for boiling pasta
  • - Skillet or frying pan for cooking salmon
  • - Small bowl (for mixing pesto, if making from scratch)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • - Tongs or spatula for tossing pasta

Ingredients
  

  • #### For the Pasta
  • - 8 oz pasta spaghetti, penne, or your choice
  • - Salt for the pasta water
  • #### For the Salmon
  • - 2 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • - Salt and pepper to taste
  • - 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, for added brightness
  • #### For the Pesto Sauce if making from scratch
  • - 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • - 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • - 2 cloves garlic
  • - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • - 1/2 cup olive oil
  • - Salt and pepper to taste
  • - 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional

Instructions
 

  • **Cook the Pasta**
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, or until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
  • **Prepare the Salmon**
  • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon zest (if using). Add the salmon to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.
  • **Make the Pesto Sauce**
  • In a food processor or blender, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a little pasta water or olive oil to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, if desired.
  • **Assemble the Pasta**
  • Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces using a fork. In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, adding pasta water a little at a time to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Add the flaked salmon and gently toss to combine.
  • **Serve**
  • Divide the pasta between serving bowls. Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!