Pesto Crusted Salmon

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• Salmon - 1.5 - 2 lb (750 gm) cut into 4, 2.5 inch wide fillets
• Pesto* - 5-6 tbsp or as much is needed to coat the fillets
  
• Chili powder - 1 tsp
• Black pepper - 1/2 tsp
• Salt - to taste (pesto will be salty)
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• Pesto:
• Basil - 2 cup
• Parmesan Cheese - 1/2 cup
• Pine nuts - 1/2 cup, lightly toasted
  
• Olive oil - 1/2 cup
• Salt - 1/2 tsp
• Black pepper - 1 tsp, freshly ground
  

Methods:

• 1. For the pesto, blend all the ingredients together in a food processor until coarsely ground. You can keep it refrigerated up to 3 weeks in a jar or sealed container.
  
• 2. In a bowl, mix in the pesto with the chili powder, salt and pepper. Place the salmon fillets on a cutting board or a flat surface. Spread the pesto evenly on the fillets, flip and spread some more on the other side. Let it marinate for minimum of 1 hour, maximum of 4 hours (in which case, in the fridge).
  

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• 3. Heat your stove top grill on high, spray some olive oil on it. Grill the pesto covered salmon fillets for 2-3 min on each side. Remove and put it on a plate. Cover with a piece of foil and let it rest for 5-10 min before serving. This will keep the fish super moist and fully cooked through.
  
• 4. Serve on a bed of wild or fruity rice and a side of vegetables. Bon Appétit!

Hints:
* If you do not wish to go through the trouble of making home-made pesto, you can also use your favourite store bought kind.