Italian Pan-Seared Salmon with Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Pan-seared salmon fillets topped with vibrant basil pesto and roasted cherry tomatoes for a fresh Italian-inspired meal. This italian-inspired seafood (gluten free) ready in about 27 minutes blends skin-on, 6 oz each salmon fillets, divided olive oil, salt into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: To make basil pesto, combine 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/4 cup olive oil in a food processor. Blend until smooth and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season 4 salmon fillets with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until skin is crisp.
  3. Step 3: Flip the salmon carefully and add 1 pint halved cherry tomatoes around the fillets. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until salmon is cooked through and tomatoes soften.
  4. Step 4: Remove skillet from heat. Spoon 2 tbsp basil pesto over each salmon fillet and scatter the roasted cherry tomatoes on the side.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Italian Pan-Seared Salmon with Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes take to make?

Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Italian Pan-Seared Salmon with Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Italian Pan-Seared Salmon with Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Italian Pan-Seared Salmon with Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Italian Pan-Seared Salmon with Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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