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Lemon Salmon with Orzo

Lemon Salmon with Orzo
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This easy Lemon Salmon with Orzo recipe combines juicy, flaky salmon with tender orzo pasta and a bright lemony zing for a refreshing, wholesome, and quick dinner that’s packed with healthy omega-3s and fresh flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends, offering a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 skin-on salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Orzo: Start by bringing 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth (or water) to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1 cup orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Drain any excess liquid and set the orzo aside.
  2. Cook the Salmon: While the orzo cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily.
  3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: Reduce heat to medium, add a little more olive oil to the pan if needed, and sauté 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add freshly squeezed juice and zest of 1 lemon, plus a splash of broth or water to create a light sauce. Let it simmer gently for about a minute while stirring.
  4. Combine Orzo and Sauce: Return the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing gently to coat it in the lemon garlic sauce. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently place the cooked salmon fillets on top.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Lemon Salmon with Orzo to plates or bowls. Garnish with extra lemon wedges and herbs, and serve immediately for a vibrant and healthy dinner.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
  • Pat salmon fillets dry before cooking and cook skin-side down first to achieve crispy skin.
  • Remove salmon from heat as soon as it flakes easily to keep it moist and tender.
  • Simmer lemon sauce gently to avoid bitterness.
  • Monitor orzo cooking carefully to keep it al dente and not mushy.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon salmon, orzo pasta, healthy dinner, quick recipe, omega-3, Mediterranean dish, gluten-free option

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