Pesto-Crusted Salmon and Steak with Basil Cream

3. The Recipe: Pesto-Crusted Salmon and Steak with Basil Cream

Now that we’ve established the components and the techniques behind creating pesto-crusted salmon and steak with basil cream, let’s dive into the step-by-step recipe to create this flavorful dish at home.

Ingredients for Pesto-Crusted Salmon and Steak with Basil Cream

For the Pesto-Crusted Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off, depending on preference
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for added zest)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

For the Pesto-Crusted Steak:

• 4 steak cuts (ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip, approximately 6 oz each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for searing the steak

For the Basil Cream Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions for Pesto-Crusted Salmon and Steak with Basil Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto for the Salmon and Steak

Start by making the pesto that will coat both the salmon and steak. In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped, and then slowly add the olive oil while continuing to blend until the pesto reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. You can add a splash of lemon juice or lemon zest for extra brightness if you like.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Steak

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the salmon, as the fish will need a hot oven to bake quickly while achieving a crispy pesto crust. For the steak, heat a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over high heat on the stovetop. Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper. Add the olive oil to the hot pan and sear the steaks for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a rich, golden-brown crust. Transfer the steaks to the preheated oven and roast for an additional 5-7 minutes for medium-rare or longer for your desired doneness.

Step 3: Coat the Salmon with Pesto

While the steak is in the oven, place the salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Season the fillets with salt and pepper and spread a generous layer of pesto over the top of each fillet. Make sure the pesto is evenly distributed to create a nice crust. Once the steak is done, place the salmon in the oven to bake for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Step 4: Prepare the Basil Cream Sauce

While the steak and salmon are cooking, it’s time to make the basil cream sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream begins to thicken.

Stir in the chopped basil and Parmesan cheese, and continue to simmer until the cheese melts into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to reach the desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once the pesto-crusted salmon and steak are ready, plate them side by side or serve separately depending on your preference. Drizzle the basil cream sauce over the top of both the salmon and steak, ensuring each bite gets a creamy, fragrant touch. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a wedge of lemon for added brightness.

This dish is perfect when paired with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The pesto-crusted salmon offers a beautiful contrast of textures, with its crispy crust and moist interior, while the steak provides a hearty, satisfying element. The basil cream sauce ties everything together with its rich, velvety texture and fresh herbaceous flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Pesto-Crusted Salmon and Steak:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the pesto, opt for fresh basil, high-quality Parmesan cheese, and fresh garlic. These ingredients contribute to the depth of flavor in the final dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon can quickly become dry if overcooked, so be sure to monitor the cooking time closely.
3. Rest the Steak: After removing the steak from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
4. Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer. For a thinner consistency, add a touch of milk or cream.

4. Conclusion

Pesto-Crusted Salmon and Steak with Basil Cream is a winning dish that combines the best of both worlds: the tender, rich flavors of steak and the fresh, flaky deliciousness of salmon, all brought together by the bold, herbal pesto and the indulgent basil cream sauce. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a special celebration, or a casual get-together with friends and family.

By following the steps and using the tips provided, you’ll be able to create a stunning meal that not only looks impressive but tastes even better. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.