Baked Salmon with Texas Pecan Basil Pesto

Jul 17, 2026by Lauren Powell

Baked Salmon with Texas Pecan Basil Pesto

When you're looking for a meal that's elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, Baked Salmon with Texas Pecan Basil Pesto is the perfect choice. Tender, flaky salmon is topped with a vibrant homemade pesto made from fresh basil, toasted Texas pecans, and Texas Hill Country Olive Co. Chef's Blend Olive Oil, then finished with a touch of White Balsamic Vinegar for a bright, balanced flavor.

Chef's Blend Olive Oil delivers a smooth, buttery richness that complements the salmon beautifully, while White Balsamic Vinegar adds just the right amount of sweetness and acidity to enhance the fresh herbs without overpowering them.

Ready in about 30 minutes, this healthy, protein-packed meal is perfect for busy evenings, family dinners, or special occasions.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes
Rich in heart-healthy omega-3s
Fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavors
Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
Perfect for entertaining or meal prep
Features premium Texas Hill Country Olive Co. products

Baked Salmon with Texas Pecan Basil Pesto

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons Texas Hill Country Olive Co. Chef's Blend Olive Oil
1 tablespoon Texas Hill Country Olive Co. White Balsamic Vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Texas Pecan Basil Pesto

3 cups fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
½ cup toasted Texas pecans
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3 garlic cloves
½ cup Texas Hill Country Olive Co. Chef's Blend Olive Oil
1 tablespoon Texas Hill Country Olive Co. White Balsamic Vinegar
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with Chef's Blend Olive Oil.

Step 2: Make the Texas Pecan Basil Pesto

Add the basil, toasted pecans, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper to a food processor.

Pulse until finely chopped.

With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the Chef's Blend Olive Oil until the pesto becomes smooth and creamy. Add the White Balsamic Vinegar and lemon juice, then pulse a few more times until well blended.

Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.

Brush both sides with Chef's Blend Olive Oil, then drizzle with White Balsamic Vinegar. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh lemon zest.

Step 4: Add the Pesto

Spread a generous layer of the Texas Pecan Basil Pesto over the top of each salmon fillet.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon, until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

For a lightly golden crust, broil the salmon for the last 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and an extra spoonful of Texas Pecan Basil Pesto.

For an added burst of flavor, drizzle a small amount of Texas Hill Country Olive Co. White Balsamic Vinegar over the finished dish just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this flavorful salmon with:

Roasted asparagus
Garlic green beans
Herb-roasted baby potatoes
Lemon rice or wild rice
Caprese salad
Grilled vegetables
Crusty artisan bread with Chef's Blend Olive Oil for dipping

Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon

Choose salmon fillets of similar thickness so they cook evenly.
Don't over bake—salmon should be moist and flaky.
Toast the pecans before making the pesto to deepen their flavor.
Make the pesto a day ahead for even richer flavor.
Store leftover pesto in the refrigerator with a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve its vibrant green color.

Why Chef's Blend Olive Oil and White Balsamic Vinegar Make the Difference

Great recipes begin with exceptional ingredients. Texas Hill Country Olive Co. Chef's Blend Olive Oil brings a smooth, well-balanced richness that enhances the fresh basil and toasted pecans, while White Balsamic Vinegar contributes a delicate sweetness and bright acidity that lifts every bite.

Together, they create a pesto that's creamy, flavorful, and perfectly paired with tender baked salmon.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a healthy meal for your family, this Baked Salmon with Texas Pecan Basil Pesto is a delicious celebration of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and premium olive oil. It's a recipe that's sure to become a favorite at your table.