Description
A simple yet elegant dinner combining perfectly seared salmon with flavorful lemon orzo. This one-pan meal is quick to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight or cozy dinner.
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zest and juice
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta and chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Add a bit more broth or water if needed to prevent the orzo from sticking.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet and let them rest on top of the orzo for a couple of minutes to warm through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Storage: This dish stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the orzo and salmon in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Vegetable Option: Add spinach, peas, or roasted tomatoes into the orzo for extra color and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or rice as a substitute for orzo.
Herb Variations: Experiment with basil, thyme, or dill for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg