Description
Whip up a delicious and satisfying weeknight meal with this Quick and Easy Creamy Lemon Orzo with Salmon Recipe. Tender salmon is nestled in a bed of creamy, zesty lemon orzo pasta for a comforting and flavourful dish. Perfect for busy evenings!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin on or off, cut into 1-inch chunks
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 shallot, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- Juice of 1/2 large lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Instructions
- 1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the salmon chunks generously with salt and pepper. Add the salmon to the hot skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- 2. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced shallot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3. Add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet with the shallots and garlic. Stir well to coat. Toast for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until most liquid is absorbed and orzo is al dente. Stir occasionally.
- 5. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 6. Gently nestle the seared salmon chunks back into the skillet. If using, add red pepper flakes. Cover and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through.
- 7. Remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Stir to combine.
Notes
Storage: Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating: Gently reheat individual portions in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water, broth, or milk to loosen the pasta. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Avoid high heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 550-650 calories (will vary)
- Sugar: Approximately 5-8g
- Sodium: Varies based on broth used, aim for under 800mg
- Fat: Approximately 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
- Protein: Approximately 35-45g