Succulent Grilled Salmon with Creamy Pesto

If you’re seeking a dish that’s as effortlessly impressive as it is mouthwatering, GRILLED SALMON WITH CREAMY PESTO SAUCE is your answer. Flaky, tender salmon gets a hint of smoky char from the grill before being draped in a pillow of rich, herby pesto cream. This recipe is weeknight-simple yet special enough for guests, bursting with fresh flavors that sing of summer evenings and good company around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is a celebration of simplicity—each ingredient is chosen to shine, perfectly balancing flavor and texture. The combination results in an elegant meal that’s easy to pull together, letting the natural beauty of the salmon and the zingy pesto take center stage.

• Fresh wild-caught salmon fillets: Fresh, high-quality salmon is the star here—opt for wild-caught whenever possible for unbeatable flavor and texture.
• Pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought): A vibrant pesto, full of fresh basil and garlic, brings color and tons of herby personality to your sauce.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Just a splash brightens the creamy pesto, lifting the sauce and balancing the richness perfectly.
• Olive oil: A quick drizzle before grilling helps the salmon stay moist and gives it a lovely golden sear.
• Salt and pepper: These kitchen staples are absolutely crucial—don’t be shy! Good seasoning elevates every other flavor in GRILLED SALMON WITH CREAMY PESTO SAUCE.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: The cheese adds nutty depth and builds that irresistible creamy texture in your sauce.

How to Make GRILLED SALMON WITH CREAMY PESTO SAUCE

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

Start by bringing your grill to medium-high heat. Allowing the grill to heat thoroughly ensures you’ll get that appealing caramelized crust on your salmon while keeping the inside perfectly moist.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon

Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully instead of steaming. Drizzle each fillet with a bit of olive oil and season liberally with salt and pepper for that essential flavor base.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In a medium bowl, stir together the pesto sauce, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. The lemon juice lifts the herbs while the Parmesan melts into the pesto, creating a dreamy, savory sauce that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

Place each fillet skin-side down on the hot grill. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but is still moist inside. Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it!

Step 5: Finish With Creamy Pesto Sauce

Transfer the cooked salmon to a platter or plates, then generously drizzle each fillet with the luscious creamy pesto sauce. This moment is pure magic—the warmth of the fish mingles with the sauce, releasing all those vibrant basil aromas.

How to Serve GRILLED SALMON WITH CREAMY PESTO SAUCE

Garnishes

Top each fillet with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan, a few fresh basil leaves for a burst of color, or some lemon zest to echo that citrusy brightness. Tiny cherry tomatoes halved alongside the fish also add a pop of juiciness and color.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs perfectly with a light green salad, garlicky roasted potatoes, or a simple side of grilled asparagus. If you’re wanting something heartier, try it with a bed of fluffy couscous or buttery rice to soak up every bit of the creamy pesto sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve GRILLED SALMON WITH CREAMY PESTO SAUCE on a large platter over a tangle of greens and sliced summer veggies. Or, make it a “bowl” meal: lay the salmon atop quinoa, arugula, and blistered cherry tomatoes, then drizzle lavishly with extra sauce for an elegant but casual presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra salmon, let it cool to room temperature, then store the fillets and any leftover creamy pesto sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days and make for a fantastic lunch or salad topping the next day.

Freezing

While the salmon itself freezes beautifully, the creamy pesto sauce is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor and texture. To freeze, wrap the cooled salmon tightly and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and topping with a fresh batch of sauce.

Reheating

For the juiciest results, gently reheat the salmon in a low oven (around 275°F) until just warmed through—about 10 minutes. Add the creamy pesto sauce after heating to preserve its creaminess and vibrant flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto for GRILLED SALMON WITH CREAMY PESTO SAUCE?

Absolutely. While homemade pesto is always a treat, a good-quality store-bought pesto saves time and still delivers tons of flavor. Just choose one with fresh, natural ingredients for best results.

What’s the best way to keep salmon from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grill is clean and well-oiled before you start, and don’t rush flipping the fish—if it sticks, it likely needs another minute or two. The skin will naturally release when ready.

Can I make this recipe indoors?

Definitely! If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, use a grill pan or even a regular nonstick skillet on your stovetop. The flavor will still be fantastic with that creamy pesto topping.

How can I tell when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

Look for salmon that’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork but still looks slightly translucent in the center. A thermometer inserted should read 125-130°F for moist, medium-rare results.

Is GRILLED SALMON WITH CREAMY PESTO SAUCE gluten free?

Yes, as long as your pesto and Parmesan are gluten free, this dish is naturally gluten free, making it a fantastic choice for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to wow your family or friends with minimal effort, GRILLED SALMON WITH CREAMY PESTO SAUCE is a guaranteed hit. It’s light, fresh, and elegant—so don’t wait to make this recipe your new weeknight or special-occasion favorite! Give it a go and savor every delicious bite.

Print