1/2 cup fresh basil, plus more for garnish
1 tablespoon pine nuts
1 clove garlic, peeled
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
2 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
Fresh ground pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh basil, sliced into ribbons
1 lemon, sliced
Heat the oven to 450 F.
In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil and 4 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese. Pulse until a paste forms.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper foil.
Place the two salmon fillets, skin side down, on the tray.
Evenly spread a layer of pesto on top of each fillet.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Top each fillet with this mixture followed by two lemon slices, and finish with fresh ground black pepper.
Bake 12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.