If you’re on the hunt for a delightful dish that brings together the richness of salmon with the fresh, herbaceous zing of pesto, you are going to love this Creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe. This meal is a beautiful balance of flavors and textures – tender salmon with just a hint of cajun spice, perfectly al dente spaghetti, and a luscious pesto sauce finished with creamy cheese. It feels fancy but comes together so easily, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or special occasion treat. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your go-to pasta dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two clear glass bowls are shown side by side on a white marbled surface. The left bowl contains several pieces of raw salmon cut into chunks, each piece with vibrant orange flesh and dark gray skin on some edges. The right bowl holds the same salmon pieces now coated in a reddish spice mix, giving them a textured, seasoned look with orange and brown tones. A metal spoon rests inside the right bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s flavorful, vibrant, and satisfying. From the fresh salmon packed with protein and healthy fats, to the pesto that lends bright, aromatic notes, every component adds to the overall harmony of the plate.

9 oz (250g) spaghetti: Choose a quality pasta that holds sauce well and cooks to a perfect bite.
10-14 oz (300-400g) raw salmon: Fresh, boneless fillet provides the tender, flaky texture and rich taste that’s the star of the dish.
1 tbsp avocado oil: A heart-healthy oil with a neutral flavor that’s great for searing salmon to crispy perfection.
2 tsp cajun seasoning: Adds warming, smoky spice that complements the salmon beautifully without overpowering.
½ tsp sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the seasoning perfectly.
½ cup pesto sauce: Your creamy, herby powerhouse for flavor and color; homemade or store-bought can work wonderfully.
¼ cup pecorino cheese or parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty richness that melds everything together.
Freshly ground black pepper: For a touch of heat and depth to finish the dish.
½ lemon: Just a squeeze at the end to brighten and lift all the flavors.

How to Make Creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. This ensures the pasta has a perfect bite and can soak up the creamy pesto sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, reserve a bit of pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce if needed later.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

While the pasta is cooking, pat your salmon dry and sprinkle it evenly with sea salt and the cajun seasoning. The seasoning is key to adding a subtle kick and complexity to the fish, making each bite exciting. Heat the avocado oil in a pan over medium-high heat and place the salmon skin-side down if you left it on. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through but still tender and flaky. Then remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Combine with Pesto and Cheese

Lower the heat to medium, add the pesto sauce to the pan with the salmon drippings, and stir it gently. Add the drained pasta into the pan, tossing to coat every strand in the creamy pesto. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to achieve a silky consistency. Sprinkle in the pecorino or parmesan cheese, folding it through so it melts into the sauce, enriching the texture and flavor.

Step 4: Final Touches

Flake the cooked salmon into large chunks and carefully fold it into the pasta, making sure not to break it up too much. Grind some fresh black pepper over the dish and squeeze the juice of half a lemon to add a fresh, tangy brightness that balances the richness beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe

Two side-by-side images show the process of making pesto pasta in a silver pot on a white marbled texture. The left image has cooked spaghetti forming the bottom layer, light yellow and smooth, with a dollop of bright green pesto sauce on top in the center. A wooden spoon with a flat, rectangular edge rests inside the pot. The right image shows the spaghetti fully mixed with the green pesto sauce, coated evenly, with a sprinkle of grated white cheese scattered over the top layer. The wooden spoon is still inside the pot, slightly stirring the pasta photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes make a world of difference when serving this pasta. I love adding a few additional shavings of pecorino or parmesan cheese right on top, freshly cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley for color and fragrance. A thin lemon wedge on the side also adds a lovely visual and allows guests to adjust acidity to their taste.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t compete with its flavors. A crisp mixed green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta perfectly. Alternatively, some garlic roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans can add a satisfying crunch and a pop of vibrant green on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, consider serving the pasta directly on warm plates or in shallow bowls with the salmon chunks artfully layered on top. For a rustic look, a wooden board with crusty bread and a few lemon wedges beside the pasta adds charm and invites people to dig in. You can even drizzle a little extra pesto or olive oil around the edges for a restaurant-style finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Because of the delicate texture of the salmon, it’s best eaten fresh but properly stored leftovers can still be delicious.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is not recommended as pasta tends to change texture and the creamy pesto can separate upon thawing. If you want to prep ahead, consider freezing the cooked salmon separately without sauce or pasta and combine fresh on the day you plan to serve.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat while adding a splash of water or cream to bring back its creaminess. Avoid microwave reheating if possible to maintain the best texture and avoid drying out the salmon.

FAQs

Can I use another type of fish instead of salmon?

Absolutely! While salmon’s rich flavor works wonderfully with pesto, you can substitute with trout or even cooked shrimp for a lighter twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is store-bought pesto okay to use?

Definitely! A good quality store-bought pesto works great to save time without sacrificing flavor. If you have fresh basil and time, homemade pesto elevates the dish to another level though.

How spicy is the cajun seasoning in this recipe?

The cajun seasoning adds a mild warm spice that enhances the salmon without overwhelming the delicate flavors. You can adjust the amount or skip it if you prefer a milder dish.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just swap out regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, giving you a delicious gluten-free Creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe.

What wine pairs best with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the herbal pesto and rich salmon beautifully. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir works surprisingly well.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making this Creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe enough when you want something both comforting and exciting on your plate. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but comes together quickly with simple ingredients packed with flavor. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and again, whether for a cozy dinner at home or to impress your friends with your cooking skills. Give it a whirl and enjoy every creamy, herby, flaky bite!

Creamy Salmon Pesto Pasta Recipe