Salmon Pasta with Spinach Pesto

Name: Salmon Pasta with Spinach Pesto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 2 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1/2 cup walnuts; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 lb salmon fillet; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Chef | Any Can Cook

I absolutely love this Salmon Pasta with Spinach Pesto! It’s a dish that combines delightful flavors and vibrant colors, all while being quick to prepare. The creamy, rich pesto is made with fresh spinach that adds a hint of earthiness, while the salmon provides a delectable seafood twist. We often indulge in this recipe during busy weeknights, as it comes together in just under 30 minutes. With its elegant presentation, it’s also a fantastic choice for impressing guests at dinner parties.

Created by

The Foodstoryline Team

Last updated on 2026-03-21T15:55:06.712Z

Cooking this Salmon Pasta with Spinach Pesto became one of my go-to recipes after I went on a quest to find a quick yet scrumptious meal. The combination of fresh ingredients not only makes it healthy but also bursts with flavor. One of my favorite tips is to make the spinach pesto in a food processor; it takes just a couple of minutes to blend the spinach, nuts, garlic, and olive oil into a vibrant sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of convenience and sophistication.

As I experimented with this recipe, I found that gently sautéing the salmon before mixing it into the pasta brings out a richer taste. I like to flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that every forkful has both the creamy pesto and succulent fish. If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving. It truly takes it to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Fresh spinach pesto bursting with flavor
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Nutritious and filling while being celebratory

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach in the pesto is crucial for achieving a vibrant color and lively flavor. The bright green leaves not only provide essential nutrients but also contribute a fresh, earthy taste that pairs beautifully with the richness of the salmon. If fresh spinach is not available, you can substitute with baby kale or arugula, though the flavor profile will slightly differ.

Opting for wild-caught salmon is another way to enhance the dish's quality. Wild salmon typically has a deeper flavor and firmer texture compared to farmed varieties. When cooking the salmon, watch for the flesh to turn opaque and easily flake with a fork; this indicates that it's perfectly cooked.

Tips for Perfecting the Pesto

To achieve a creamy yet not overly rich pesto, it’s essential to balance the amount of olive oil. Start with 1/2 cup as specified in the recipe, but feel free to adjust based on your taste. If you prefer a lighter version, consider reducing the oil and adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

When blending the pesto, be cautious not to over-process the spinach, which can lead to a mushy texture. Pulse the mixture just until combined for a more rustic feel. I recommend tasting as you blend; if the flavor needs a boost, add a pinch of salt or a bit more garlic to enhance the overall profile.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to prepare this delicious Salmon Pasta with Spinach Pesto.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1/2 cup walnuts
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup olive oil
1 lb salmon fillet
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's move on to the cooking steps.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Salmon Pasta with Spinach Pesto.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Make the Spinach Pesto

In a food processor, combine spinach, walnuts, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth. If the pesto is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.

Prepare the Salmon

Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the salmon skin-side down for about 6-8 minutes until crispy, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until flaky. Remove from heat and let cool before flaking.

Combine Everything

In the same pot used for the pasta, combine the cooked spaghetti and spinach pesto. Add flaked salmon on top, gently tossing to combine all ingredients. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Plate the pasta, and if desired, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious dish!

Now that your Salmon Pasta with Spinach Pesto is ready, enjoy the delightful flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the pasta before serving. It brightens up the dish beautifully!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Salmon Pasta with Spinach Pesto can be made ahead of time, making it a great meal prep option. Cook and store the pasta separately from the pesto in airtight containers. The pesto can be kept in the fridge for up to five days, allowing you to whip up a quick meal during the week. Just drizzle a bit of olive oil on top to prevent browning.

While I recommend consuming the salmon fresh for the best texture, if you must store leftovers, keep the salmon and pasta combined in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water, stirring to prevent sticking. Serve with fresh Parmesan for a delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Salmon Pasta, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color. A sprinkle of lemon zest can also brighten the dish, enhancing the flavors of the pesto and salmon. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a simple mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

For those looking to spice things up, try adding crushed red pepper flakes directly into the pesto or sprinkle them on top just before serving. This addition not only brings a kick but also enhances the flavor profile, making the dish more exciting and unique.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

Pine nuts or almonds work well in the pesto.

→ Can I make the spinach pesto ahead of time?

Yes, the pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta for this recipe to make it gluten-free.