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Grilled Salmon with Dandelion Greens Pesto Recipe | Healthy Spring Seafood Dish

Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups packed young dandelion greens (about 5-6 oz)
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • 2 medium cloves garlic, roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skin-on
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Dandelion Greens: Wash greens thoroughly in cold water and pat completely dry using a salad spinner or towels.
  • Make the Pesto: In a food processor, pulse the dandelion greens, toasted walnuts, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and garlic until coarsely chopped. With the processor running, slowly stream in the 1/2 cup of olive oil until emulsified but still textured. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and pulse to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning. Set aside.
  • Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high (400-450°F). Clean the grates thoroughly and wipe them with an oil-soaked paper towel.
  • Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets completely dry. Brush all over with 1 tbsp of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
  • Grill the Salmon: Place salmon skin-side down on the hot grates. Cook for 4-6 minutes, until the skin is crispy and releases easily. Flip carefully and cook for another 2-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for medium.
  • Rest and Serve: Transfer the salmon to a platter and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. Serve warm, topped with a generous amount of the dandelion greens pesto.

Notes

For the best results, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your salmon is cooked to a perfect 130-135°F. This prevents overcooking and guarantees a moist, flaky fillet.
Keyword dandelion green recipe, grilled salmon with dandelion pesto, healthy salmon recipe, spring seafood dish