This Pesto Salmon on Quinoa is a wholesome, flavorful dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Tender, flaky salmon is coated in a rich, herby pesto and served over fluffy quinoa, creating a nutrient-packed meal that’s delicious and satisfying.
🐟🌿 Dietary Notes: High-protein, gluten-free, and rich in omega-3s.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pesto Salmon on Quinoa

A high-protein meal featuring pesto-coated salmon served over fluffy quinoa.

  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
  • Medium saucepan
  • Small food processor (if making pesto from scratch)
  • Fork for flaking salmon

For the Salmon:

  • 🐟 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skinless or skin-on)
  • 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
  • 🍋 Juice of 1 lemon
  • 🫒 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pesto (or use 1/2 cup store-bought):

  • 🌿 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
  • 🧄 2 cloves garlic
  • 🥜 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • 🧀 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
  • 🫒 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa:

  • 🍚 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
  • 💧 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 🧂 Pinch of salt

Prepare the Quinoa:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water (or broth), and salt.

  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

  3. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and set aside.

Make the Pesto (Skip if using store-bought):

  1. In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan (or nutritional yeast), and olive oil.

  2. Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil if needed for desired consistency.

  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the Salmon:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Place salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  3. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  4. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto over each fillet.

  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Divide the cooked quinoa into serving bowls.

  2. Place a salmon fillet on top of each quinoa portion.

  3. Drizzle with extra pesto if desired.

Serve and Garnish:

  1. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of pine nuts if desired.

  2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

  • 🌿 Quinoa Alternative: Swap quinoa with brown rice, farro, or couscous.
  • 🐟 Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in airtight containers.
  • 🌶️ Spicy Variation: Add red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy twist.
  • 🍋 Extra Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors beautifully.
Dinner
Mediterranean

This Pesto Salmon on Quinoa is a light yet satisfying dish that combines bold flavors with nutritious ingredients.
Try it out today and let us know how it turned out! 🐟🌿🍋💚