Seared Salmon with Creamy Pesto
Topped with a creamy pesto and served with cherry tomatoes tossed in a garlicky orzo…this salmon dish is FINtastic!
Seared Salmon w/Creamy Pesto and Pan Roasted Cherry Tomato Orzo -
Ingredients:
Cherry Tomatoes & Orzo-
1 cup orzo, cooked per package instructions (reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water)
Olive oil
1 pint cherry tomatoes
Salt and pepper
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
Pinch crushed red pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Sauce-
1/4 cup pesto
1/4 cup milk
Salmon-
1 lb salmon, cut into 3 pieces
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Instructions:
Cherry Tomatoes & Orzo-
Heat pan over medium heat
Add 2 tbsp olive oil and the cherry tomatoes
Season with salt and pepper
Cook until tomatoes soften and start to burst
Remove tomatoes from pan and set aside
Add about 2 tbsp olive oil to pan and the garlic
Cook about 30 seconds, until fragrant
Stir in lemon juice and crushed red pepper
Add the orzo and reserved pasta water and stir to coat
Toss in the tomatoes, basil and parsley
Sauce-
Add pesto and milk to a small saucepan
Cook, over low heat, until warm and combined
Remove from heat and keep warm
Salmon-
Season salmon with salt and pepper
Heat pan over medium heat
Add about a tbsp olive oil to hot pan
Add salmon and cook about 5 minutes
Flip and cook additional 4-5 minutes, until done
Serve with a spoonful of creamy pesto on top and a side of orzo
Enjoy!
Seared salmon with creamy pesto is a gourmet yet easy-to-make dish that perfectly balances rich, savory flavors and fresh ingredients. The key to a fully satisfying meal lies in the harmonious combination of the tender salmon fillet, topped generously with a smooth pesto sauce blended with milk to add creaminess and mellow the robust basil flavor. The accompanying orzo pasta tossed with garlicky cherry tomatoes offers a bright and slightly tangy contrast. Cooking cherry tomatoes until they soften and burst releases natural sweetness that complements the herbaceous pesto and the earthiness of the salmon. Using a bit of reserved pasta water to coat the orzo helps to create a silky texture, while addition of fresh basil and parsley enhances the overall freshness and aroma. This recipe utilizes simple and wholesome ingredients—such as garlic, lemon juice, crushed red pepper, fresh herbs, and quality olive oil—that improve the dish's nutritional profile without compromising taste. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function, making this meal both delicious and beneficial. To achieve the perfect sear, it is recommended to heat the pan well and cook the salmon skin-side down first to develop a crispy crust, then flip gently to finish cooking. Seasoning the salmon with salt and pepper before cooking enhances its natural flavors without overpowering them. For a harmonious flavor profile, consider using homemade or high-quality pesto and fresh milk or cream for the sauce, which will elevate the dish from ordinary to restaurant-quality. Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or reheated gently without losing quality. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a sparkling water infused with lemon for a refreshing complement. Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this seared salmon with creamy pesto and garlicky cherry tomato orzo offers impressive taste with minimal effort, appealing to both seafood lovers and those seeking a nutritious, flavorful meal.
