Get ready for a summery, flavorful dinner that’s as vibrant as it is delicious! This spice-rubbed salmon, paired with a fresh tomato salad and a tangy basil sauce, will have you and your guests reaching for seconds. It’s a crowd-pleaser with bold flavors and a creamy sauce you’ll want to drizzle over everything.
How to Make This Salmon with Basil Sauce (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Make the Basil Sauce
Blend your ingredients together in a mini chopper or food processor. It’s quick and easy, and the result is a creamy, flavorful sauce that will elevate every bite.
Step 2: Spice Up the Salmon
Mix up a quick spice rub and massage it into your salmon fillets. It’s oddly satisfying, and you’ll love the punch it adds to the fish.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
Pop the salmon into the oven just 10 minutes before you’re ready to eat. For perfect salmon, bake it until the thickest part reaches 135°F to 140°F (medium-well). You can also check by gently pulling apart a small section to ensure it’s cooked through.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Everyone gets to build their own plate! Start with a base of rice, add a scoop of the fresh tomato salad, and top it all off with a generous spoonful of that glorious basil sauce.
Ingredients
Spice-Rubbed Salmon:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb salmon fillet, cut into 2-3 pieces
Basil Sauce:
- 1/2 cup packed fresh basil
- 1 small bunch fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 cup mayo (more as needed for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Small pinch of salt, to taste
Tomato Salad:
- 1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 2 ears sweet corn, kernels cut off the cob
- 1-2 cups fresh spinach or spring greens
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced chives or parsley
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder, to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice or grains (precooked for convenience)
Instructions
- Prep the Tomato Salad:
Combine the halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, greens, olive oil, and minced herbs. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Set aside. - Make the Basil Sauce:
Blend the basil, chives, garlic, mayo, Parmesan, lemon juice, and salt until nearly smooth, leaving a few flecks for texture. Adjust mayo for desired creaminess. - Prep the Salmon:
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, sugar, and olive oil in a small bowl. Rub the spice paste generously over the salmon fillets. - Bake the Salmon:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake the salmon for 9-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F to 140°F. (Adjust cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.) - Assemble the Meal:
Plate the salmon over a bed of cooked rice, serve with the tomato salad, and spoon plenty of basil sauce over the top. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American