Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Basil Pesto and Zucchini Noodles
Crisp-skinned salmon paired with fresh lemon basil pesto atop light zucchini noodles for a bright, healthy dinner. This italian-inspired seafood ready in about 35 minutes blends (6 oz each), skin on salmon fillets, packed fresh basil leaves, tablespoons fresh lemon juice 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 520 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.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces (6 oz each), skin on salmon fillets
- 4 medium, spiralized into noodles zucchini
- 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/3 cup, divided olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon, divided salt
- 1/2 teaspoon, divided black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon (optional) red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: To make the lemon basil pesto, combine 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a food processor. Pulse until smooth but still slightly textured, scraping down sides as needed.
- Step 2: Pat dry 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) and season both sides with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until skin is crisp and releases easily. Flip and cook for 2-3 minutes more until salmon is just cooked through.
- Step 4: In a separate skillet, heat remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add spiralized noodles from 4 medium zucchinis and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still slightly firm. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using.
- Step 5: Divide zucchini noodles among 4 plates, top each with a salmon fillet, and spoon 2-3 tablespoons lemon basil pesto over the salmon. Serve immediately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Basil Pesto and Zucchini Noodles take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Basil Pesto and Zucchini Noodles?
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 Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Basil Pesto and Zucchini Noodles?
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 Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Basil Pesto and Zucchini Noodles 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.
What goes well with Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Basil Pesto and Zucchini Noodles?
Italian seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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