Rich, flaky salmon paired with bright pesto flavor
Juicy blistered tomatoes add sweetness and depth
Balanced meal with protein, carbs, and healthy fats
Elegant enough for entertaining, simple enough for everyday
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
salmon fillets
pesto (store-bought or homemade)
orzo pasta
cherry or grape tomatoes
garlic, minced
olive oil
lemon juice
salt
black pepper
Optional garnish:
fresh basil
grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
Spread a layer of pesto over each fillet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
Meanwhile, cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add tomatoes. Cook until they begin to blister and soften.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the cooked orzo and toss to combine with the tomatoes.
Add a splash of lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
Serve the pesto salmon over the blistered tomato orzo.
Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15–20 minutes Total time: About 30 minutes
Variations
Use couscous or quinoa instead of orzo
Add spinach or arugula for extra greens
Substitute shrimp or chicken for the salmon
Use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor
Add chili flakes for a bit of heat
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep the orzo from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it completely before cooking.
What kind of pesto works best?
Both homemade and store-bought pesto work well.
How do I know when salmon is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but components can be prepared ahead and assembled later.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous are great alternatives.
How do I keep the salmon moist?
Avoid overcooking and consider adding a drizzle of olive oil before baking.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan garnish.
What vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, asparagus, or spinach work well.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s balanced with lean protein, healthy fats, and carbs.
Can I grill the salmon instead?
Absolutely, grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor.
Conclusion
Pesto Salmon with Blistered Tomato Orzo is a fresh and flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients in a delicious way. With its vibrant colors and balanced taste, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.
This Pesto Salmon with Blistered Tomato Orzo is a fresh and flavorful dinner featuring tender baked salmon topped with herby pesto, served over orzo tossed with juicy blistered tomatoes. It’s a quick, healthy, and elegant meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets
½ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish:
Fresh basil
Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
Spread pesto evenly over each fillet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily.
Meanwhile, cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add tomatoes and cook until blistered and softened.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in cooked orzo and toss with tomatoes.
Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Serve pesto salmon over the orzo mixture.
Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Do not overcook salmon to keep it moist and tender.Use fresh, high-quality pesto for the best flavor.Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the orzo if needed.You can grill the salmon instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
