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30-Minute Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This 30-Minute Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe combines perfectly seared salmon fillets with creamy lemon-infused orzo, fresh spinach, and savory parmesan cheese. It's an ideal Mediterranean-inspired dish that's quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 4 Salmon Fillets, skinless, about 6 oz each
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil for searing the salmon
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder or Italian Seasoning for seasoning salmon

For the Lemon Orzo

  • 2 tbsp Butter for sautéing
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 small Shallots, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup White Wine for deglazing the pan
  • 2 ½ cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
  • 1 ½ cups Orzo Pasta
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream for a creamy texture
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese plus more for garnish
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice or to taste
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach, packed

Optional Add-ins

  • ½ cup Diced Bell Peppers for extra veggies
  • ½ cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved (optional)

Garnish

  • 1 tsp Lemon Zest (optional)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the Salmon. Pat the salmon fillets dry and generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder or Italian seasoning for a flavorful crust.
  2. Heat the Skillet and Sear Salmon. Heat olive oil in a large enameled cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering, place salmon fillets in the pan and sear for 2 minutes on each side until a crispy golden crust forms. Remove salmon from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Aromatics. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped shallots, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened, but not browned.
  4. Deglaze the Pan. Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet bottom to incorporate the flavors, letting it reduce slightly for about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Add Broth and Orzo. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and broth is mostly absorbed.
  6. Finish the Orzo. Stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice, mixing well to create a rich, creamy sauce.
  7. Add Salmon and Spinach. Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet nestling them into the orzo mixture. Add fresh baby spinach leaves and cook everything together for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the salmon reheats.
  8. Garnish and Serve. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and optional lemon zest. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your vibrant Mediterranean meal.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the salmon or use a plant-based alternative.
  • Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Adding diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes adds extra color and nutrition if desired.
  • If preferred, use gluten-free orzo or substitute with other small pasta shapes for dietary restrictions.
  • Lemon juice can be adjusted to taste if you prefer a more or less tangy flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://recipekind.com/30-minute-seared-salmon-with-lemon-orzo-recipe/