Easy Coho Salmon

Easy Coho Salmon with Pesto

This Coho Salmon with pesto recipe is a simple way to enjoy wild-caught Alaskan salmon at its best. Coho salmon has a mild and slightly buttery flavor and a firm, flaky texture, which pairs perfectly with the bright, herb-filled pesto. This creates a dish that feels fresh and light, refining a typical weeknight dinner. The pesto enhances the flavor of the fish without overwhelming it, emphasizing the subtle taste that makes Coho salmon such a diverse and beloved ingredient.

Why We Love Coho Salmon with Pesto

Pesto and Coho salmon are a natural match.

• Mild flavor: Coho salmon allows the basil, garlic, and olive oil in pesto to shine

• Quick cooking: This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes

• Versatile: Serve it with pasta, vegetables, or grains

• Restaurant-quality results: Simple ingredients, elevated flavor

Unlike richer salmon varieties, Coho salmon stays light and fresh, making pesto the perfect complement rather than competition.

Try This Recipe with Sizzlefish Wild Alaska Coho Salmon

At Sizzlefish, our Wild Alaska Coho Salmon is wild-caught in the cold, pristine waters of Alaska, where the fish develop their naturally mild flavor, firm texture, and vibrant color. Harvested by trusted Alaskan fisheries using sustainable practices, each fillet is flash-frozen at peak freshness and individually portioned, ensuring restaurant-quality taste and texture in every bite. This wild Alaskan Coho is perfect for recipes like Coho salmon with pesto, delivering clean, fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with herbs, sauces, and simple preparations.

Best Side Dishes for Coho Salmon with Pesto

Vegetable Pairings

• Roasted asparagus or Broccolini

• Sautéed zucchini or Summer squash

• Cherry tomatoes blistered with olive oil

Grain & Pasta Pairings

• Lemon orzo

• Garlic parmesan rice

• Pasta tossed lightly with olive oil and extra pesto

Salad Pairings

• Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella

Tips for Cooking Coho Salmon Perfectly

• Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the refrigerator

• Pat dry before cooking to prevent steaming

• Avoid overcooking: Coho salmon is lean and cooks quickly

• Add pesto after cooking to keep flavors fresh and vibrant

FAQs for Coho Salmon with Pesto

Q: Is Coho salmon good with pesto?

A: Yes. Coho salmon’s mild flavor and firm texture make it ideal for pesto-based recipes, allowing the herbs and olive oil to enhance the fish without overwhelming it.

Q: How long should you cook Coho salmon?

A: Most Coho salmon fillets cook in 10–12 minutes in the oven or 6–8 minutes on the stovetop, depending on thickness.

Q: Can I cook pesto on the salmon?

A: It’s best to add pesto after cooking or during the final minute to prevent the basil from darkening and losing flavor.