Pan Seared Salmon With Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe

Ingredients for Pan Seared Salmon With Lemon Basil Pesto

• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• Fresh Basil Leaf
• Garlic Cloves
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
• Fresh Lemon Juice
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• Salmon Fillets
• 1 teaspoon cooking spray

How to Make Pan Seared Salmon With Lemon Basil Pesto

1. Toast 1/4 cup pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Add toasted pine nuts, 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves, and 2 cloves garlic to a food processor.
3. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
4. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil until well combined. Scrape down the sides as needed.
5. Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste), 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until smooth but still slightly chunky.
6. Set pesto aside.
7. Pat 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
8. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon cooking spray.
9. Sear salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of your fillets.
10. Spoon the lemon basil pesto generously over the cooked salmon.
11. Serve immediately or at room temperature. Garnish with extra basil leaves (optional).