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Lemon Orzo with Salmon

Lemon Orzo with Salmon
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A fresh and flavorful Lemon Orzo with Salmon dish that is quick to prepare, healthy, and perfect for a vibrant weeknight dinner. Tender orzo pasta infused with zesty lemon pairs beautifully with flaky salmon, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup and maximum taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo and Cooking Liquid

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Salmon

  • 2 fresh salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), wild-caught preferred
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Flavorings and Garnishes

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Additional lemon zest, for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
  • Toasted pine nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Orzo: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the orzo and stir often for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  2. Cook the Salmon: While the orzo is cooking, season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side down and cook for about 4 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  3. Combine and Finish: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley for brightness. Gently flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and fold them into the orzo mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional lemon juice, salt, or pepper as desired. Serve garnished with extra lemon zest, fresh herbs, and toasted pine nuts if using.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best vibrant flavor.
  • Do not overcook the salmon; it should be just opaque and flaky for tender texture.
  • Lightly toasting the orzo before cooking enhances its nutty flavor.
  • Reserve a small amount of broth to loosen the orzo if it becomes too thick.
  • Fresh herbs added at the end keep the dish lively and flavorful.
  • Frozen salmon works well if thoroughly thawed and patted dry before cooking.
  • Traditional orzo contains gluten; use gluten-free orzo alternatives if needed.
  • The recipe is naturally dairy-free unless cheese is added as a variation.
  • For lemon substitutes, use lime juice or a splash of white wine vinegar, though lemon is key to the signature flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon orzo, salmon recipe, healthy dinner, one-pan meal, quick dinner, Mediterranean seafood, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/lemon-orzo-with-salmon/