Pesto Salmon Pasta Bake: A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than pesto salmon pasta bake. This dish is a combination of tender salmon, flavorful pesto, and creamy pasta, all topped with a golden brown crust. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Pesto:
* 2 cups fresh basil leaves
* 1/2 cup olive oil
* 1/4 cup pine nuts
* 2 cloves garlic
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta Bake:
* 1 pound salmon fillets
* 12 ounces dried pasta
* 1 cup pesto
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
To Make the Pesto:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
2. Process until smooth and well-combined.
To Make the Pasta Bake:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2. Cook the salmon fillets according to package directions. Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, heavy cream, and flaked salmon. Stir until well-combined.
5. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
* For a richer flavor, use homemade pesto.
* If you don't have heavy cream, you can substitute milk or half-and-half.
* You can add other vegetables to the pasta bake, such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
* Serve the pasta bake with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Conclusion:
Pesto salmon pasta bake is a delicious and satisfying meal that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. It's a great way to use up leftover salmon and it's sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. So next time you're looking for a flavorful and impressive meal, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!