Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta

Name: Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 2 fillets salmon; 1 cup basil pesto; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Food | Big Meals

I absolutely love making Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta for dinner! The moment I toss the penne with vibrant pesto and perfectly cooked salmon, I know we're in for a treat. It's a dish that combines the richness of salmon with the fresh flavors of basil, garlic, and parmesan, creating a simple yet elegant meal. In just under 30 minutes, I can whip up this delightful dish that not only tastes amazing but also impresses my guests. It's become a staple in my kitchen, and I can hardly wait to share it with you!

Created by

The Chefmatttastes Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T17:57:27.508Z

Making Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta has become one of my go-to dishes when I want something quick yet satisfying. The vibrant taste of fresh basil combined with the savory salmon creates a symphony of flavor that never fails to delight. I typically prepare my own pesto to ensure maximum freshness, but store-bought works just as well if I'm short on time.

What I’ve discovered is that adding just a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish. It enhances the flavors in the pesto and gives the salmon a refreshing lift. This little trick has turned this recipe into a favorite among my family and friends!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Fresh, vibrant flavors that sing together beautifully
Quick preparation perfect for weeknight dinners
Nutritious and satisfying, yet light on the palate

Mastering the Salmon

Cooking salmon perfectly can be a game changer in this dish. Aim for a medium heat when using your skillet; this will help achieve a beautiful golden crust while cooking the inside to a moist, flaky texture. If your salmon fillets are particularly thick, you might need to increase cooking time by a minute on each side to ensure they are fully cooked. Look for a bright pink color at the center when you flake the salmon—this ensures it’s just right.

If you're looking for a quicker option, consider using leftover cooked salmon instead of fresh fillets. You can simply flake the leftover salmon and add it in at the end of the cooking process—just heat it through for a couple of minutes. This makes for an even faster preparation time, allowing you to enjoy this delightful meal in under 20 minutes.

Elevating the Pesto

Not all pesto is created equal, and using a high-quality basil pesto seems to elevate the entire dish. You can either make your own using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan, or opt for store-bought versions. Look for brands with minimal additives for the best flavor. If you want a unique spin on the recipe, try substituting some of the basil in the pesto with arugula or spinach for a peppery bite.

For those who are feeling adventurous, consider adding additional flavor boosters to your pesto. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish with acidity, while a handful of toasted nuts can give it a nice crunch. You could also swap out the Parmesan for a vegan cheese alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta:

Ingredients

8 ounces penne pasta
2 fillets salmon
1 cup basil pesto
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready for this quick meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Salmon

In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and flake the salmon into large pieces.

Combine the Ingredients

In the same skillet, combine the cooked penne, pesto, and halved cherry tomatoes. Toss to combine and heat through for about 2 minutes.

Add the Salmon and Serve

Fold in the flaked salmon and stir gently to mix everything together. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

This meal comes together quickly and is sure to impress your guests!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or sprinkling some over the finished dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Prepare the penne and salmon in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Just reheat the pasta in the pot with a splash of water until warmed through, then add the pesto and salmon. This reheating method keeps your pasta from drying out and ensures a fresh taste.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to eat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of olive oil or a touch of water to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving for optimal texture, as this can make the pasta gummy.

Serving Suggestions

Served in a large bowl, this Pesto Salmon Penne Pasta looks stunning garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. To add an extra touch, consider plating it with a side of crusty garlic bread and a light salad of arugula and lemon vinaigrette. The balance of flavors will perfectly complement the rich pasta dish.

For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with a light white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which can cut through the richness of the salmon and pesto. Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon—its refreshing notes enhance the dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape works; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free pesto and omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.

→ Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Definitely! Homemade pesto can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.