An elevated weeknight dinner you’ll want on repeat
If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels a little extra without adding stress, this pesto alfredo pasta with lemon butter salmon is it. Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this dish comes together easily but tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant.
This is one of those meals that works perfectly for busy nights, but still feels special enough for a cozy family dinner or even casual entertaining. It’s officially earned a spot in our weeknight meal rotation.
This pesto alfredo with lemon butter salmon is the perfect balance of rich and fresh flavors. Tender salmon is brushed with a simple lemon butter sauce and baked until flaky, then served over pasta tossed in a creamy pesto alfredo sauce. The nutty parmesan, aromatic basil pesto, and bright citrus from the lemon create a comforting yet vibrant dish that feels elegant but is easy enough for a weeknight meal.
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place salmon fillets in a baking dish and melt butter, lemon juice, paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then brush or pour over salmon.
Bake salmon for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness.
While the salmon bakes, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside (reserve a small amount of pasta water if needed).
In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and cook for 5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Add butter, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil or pesto. Cook for 2 minutes.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Turn off heat and add cooked pasta, tossing until fully coated in the sauce.Serve pasta topped with baked lemon butter salmon and enjoy.
