Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

Seared salmon with lemon orzo is a quick, delicious, and elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe brings together crispy, tender salmon filets and creamy lemon-infused orzo pasta, creating a harmony of textures and flavors that is sure to impress. Packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and bright, zesty notes from the lemon, this dish is as nutritious as it is delightful.

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or serve up a crowd-pleaser, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough for seasoned cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fast and Flavorful: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
2. One-Pan Option: Minimize cleanup by cooking the orzo and salmon in the same pan.
3. Customizable: Adapt the recipe with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
4. Restaurant Quality: Impress your guests with this gourmet-style dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Season the Salmon:
   • Pat the salmon filets dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy sear.
   • Rub the salmon with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the Skillet:
   • Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add olive oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt completely.
3. Sear the Salmon:
   • Lay the salmon filets skin-side down (if using skin-on) in the hot skillet.
   • Sear for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
   • Flip the salmon gently with a spatula and cook for another 3–4 minutes on the other side.
4. Rest the Salmon:
   • Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
   • Tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped shallot and garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Toast the Orzo:
   • Stir the uncooked orzo into the skillet, allowing it to toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
3. Add Broth:
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Simmer Until Tender:
   • Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid and becomes tender.

Step 3: Finish the Lemon Orzo

1. Incorporate Creaminess:
   • Stir in the heavy cream (if using) for a velvety texture.
2. Add Lemon Zest and Juice:
   • Mix in the lemon zest and juice for a burst of fresh, tangy flavor.
3. Melt in the Cheese:
   • Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the orzo, stirring until fully melted and combined.
4. Season to Taste:
   • Adjust salt and pepper as needed, and fold in freshly chopped parsley.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Orzo:
   • Spoon a generous portion of lemon orzo onto each plate.
2. Top with Salmon:
   • Place a seared salmon filet over the orzo.
3. Garnish:
   • Add lemon slices and sprinkle extra parsley or Parmesan for a beautiful presentation.
4. Serve Immediately:
   • Enjoy this dish hot and fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Toppings and Side Pairings

• Vegetable Sides: Roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or steamed broccoli.
• Salads: A simple arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette complements the dish.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Seared Salmon

1. Use Room Temperature Fish: Allow the salmon to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking.
2. Pat Dry: Removing excess moisture ensures a crispy sear.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to maintain even heat.
4. Resist Flipping Too Soon: Let the salmon cook undisturbed for a crispier crust.

Tips for the Lemon Orzo

1. Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor.
2. Keep an Eye on the Orzo: Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
3. Substitute Herbs: Basil or dill can replace parsley for a flavor twist.
4. Add Veggies: Mix in peas, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and nutrition.

Variations

1. Herb-Crusted Salmon: Coat the salmon in a mix of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and fresh herbs before searing.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orzo for heat.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or rice instead of orzo.
4. Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other types of fish?
A: Yes! Trout, halibut, or cod are great substitutes for salmon.

Q: What other cheeses work in this recipe?
A: Try Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

Q: Is the cream necessary?
A: No, the dish is still delicious without the cream, but it adds richness.

Conclusion

Seared salmon with lemon orzo is a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Combining tender, flavorful salmon with bright, creamy lemon orzo creates a meal that’s both satisfying and sophisticated. With its balance of nutrition, simplicity, and bold flavors, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Yield: 4

Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

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Seared salmon with lemon orzo is a quick, delicious, and elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe brings together crispy, tender salmon filets and creamy lemon-infused orzo pasta, creating a harmony of textures and flavors that is sure to impress. Packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and bright, zesty notes from the lemon, this dish is as nutritious as it is delightful.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Salmon:
• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• For the Lemon Orzo:
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Garnishes:
• Lemon slices
• Extra parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon:

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. Sear the Salmon:

1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on). Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon easily releases from the pan.
3. Flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is cooked through but still moist. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Orzo:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
2. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid if needed, and transfer the orzo to a bowl.

4. Prepare the Lemon Sauce:

1. In the same saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well.

5. Combine the Orzo and Sauce:

1. Add the cooked orzo to the lemon sauce. Toss until well combined and creamy.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve:

1. Plate the lemon orzo and top with the seared salmon.
2. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Notes

Cooking the Salmon: For a perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 125-130°F for medium.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the salmon with roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein.

Make Ahead: The lemon orzo can be prepared in advance and reheated with a splash of chicken broth to revive its creaminess.