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Quick and Easy Creamy Lemon Orzo with Salmon Recipe


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  • Author: James Carter
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

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

Scale
  • 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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