Pan-Seared Salmon with Zucchini Noodles and Avocado Pesto

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender salmon fillets seared to perfection paired with fresh zucchini noodles tossed in a creamy avocado basil pesto, fully compliant with Whole30. This whole30-inspired seafood (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 30 minutes blends whole ripe avocado, packed fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves 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 480 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: 15 min Serves 4 Whole30 cuisine 480 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until crisp. Flip and cook 3-4 minutes more until salmon reaches 145°F. Remove and keep warm.
  2. Step 2: In a food processor, combine 1 ripe avocado, 1 cup packed fresh basil, 2 garlic cloves, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Blend until smooth, adding up to 2 tbsp water if needed to reach a creamy consistency.
  3. Step 3: Heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add 4 medium spiralized zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp, seasoning with remaining 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  4. Step 4: Toss zucchini noodles with avocado pesto until coated evenly. Serve salmon fillets atop zucchini noodles.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Salmon with Zucchini Noodles and Avocado Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 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 Zucchini Noodles and Avocado Pesto?

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 Zucchini Noodles and Avocado Pesto?

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 Zucchini Noodles and Avocado Pesto 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 Pan-Seared Salmon with Zucchini Noodles and Avocado Pesto whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, gluten free, paleo, low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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