Roasted Basil Pesto Salmon

Ever since I found out that I was pregnant, I really tried to ensure I was getting the best nutrition I could provide. I made sure I was getting 3-4 servings of dairy daily, limited my caffeine (which wasn't a problem since Baby M refuses to allow me to have my beloved coffee), obviously no alcoholic beverages, and getting all the omegas in from fish 2-3 times per week. I have always enjoyed fish, but really wanted to make it a priority. 

Normally I create a spicy marinade or do fish tacos, but since the second trimester I have really been craving robust and strong flavors. I have been enjoying pesto like no ones business, so I decided to top some salmon with it and it turned out amazing. I used Kirkland brand Basil Pesto for mine however, if you feel so inclined and would like to make your own, I shared an easy recipe for some homemade- it can be found here ). It keeps the fish tender & juicy and the flavor combination is perfect. This can be paired with some quick pasta with more pesto or tomato sauce or can be added to a veggie and rice bowl.

Ingredients:

2 frozen salmon filets (allowed to thaw completely)

2 Tbsp basil pesto

How to:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lay each piece of salmon equidistant apart, top each piece with 1 Tbsp pesto and spread evenly until covered. 

Cook for about 20 mins or until salmon reaches internal temp of 145 degrees. 

I paired it with some whole wheat pasta and some pasta sauce for a quick meal. So far pregnancy is going great, I've been so blessed in that I haven't really experienced anything out of the ordinary for me. I still am working out 5-6 days/week, still working, still being active, and sleeping adequately. Over this past week I have been feeling the baby move so much (hello 24 weeks!). I will feel it flip around or kick/hit multiple times in a row or at the same time in two separate spots. It's all very surreal and I just laugh and smile because this really has been quite the experience so far. I hope to share more fun summer recipes as the weeks continue, currently working on a tahini cookie recipe- stay tuned!