This tasty dish features juicy salmon cooked to golden perfection, served atop fluffy lemon orzo. It’s a meal that’s bright, fresh, and super satisfying!
Making this dish feels special, but it’s quick and simple. I love how the zesty lemon brings everything together. Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is great for absorbing flavors. If you can’t find orzo, any small pasta like ditalini or even rice can be a good substitute.
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. You could use other fish like trout or tilapia if you prefer, just adjust cooking times as needed.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a lovely flavor. If you want a lighter option, you can use avocado oil or even butter for a richer taste.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth. If you’re looking for a lighter dish, you can use water with a bit of lemon or herbs for flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Seared Salmon?
Searing salmon is all about the right heat and timing. Start with a hot pan to get that crispy skin and delicious flavor. Here’s the process:
- Make sure your pan is preheated and hot enough before adding the salmon.
- Pat the fish dry; moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Only flip the salmon once when a nice crust has formed, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
Using a fish spatula can help you handle the fillets carefully without breaking them. Enjoy your perfectly seared salmon on that lemony orzo! ✨
Easy Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking, with an easy 20 minutes for enjoying your meal or preparing any sides to go with it! Perfect for a busy weeknight or a quick lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Orzo:
Start by bringing a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the orzo and cook according to the package directions—usually about 7-9 minutes until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). Drain the orzo and set aside.
2. Preparing the Salmon:
While the orzo is cooking, pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear! Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Searing the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets to the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. When done, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Don’t worry if they look a bit crispy—that’s flavor!
4. Making the Lemon Orzo Base:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—this is where the magic begins! Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, along with the lemon juice and zest. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
5. Combining the Orzo and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Stir the drained orzo into the skillet with the sauce, followed by the butter. Mix well until the butter melts and coats the orzo evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serving It Up:
Return the beautifully seared salmon to the skillet, placing it right on top of the lemony orzo. Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, and add lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
7. Enjoy Immediately!
Dig in right away while it’s warm! You can serve the salmon fillets alongside or right on top of the creamy, lemony orzo. This meal is not only delightful to eat but a joy to share!
This dish balances the rich, seared salmon with bright lemon flavors enveloped in buttery orzo, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion dinner!
FAQ for Easy Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Other Types of Fish?
Absolutely! While salmon is a favorite for its rich flavor, you can easily substitute it with other fish like trout, tilapia, or even halibut. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
What Can I Use Instead of Orzo?
If orzo isn’t available, you can use any small pasta such as ditalini or even quinoa or rice as a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for whatever you choose!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the orzo and the salmon separately in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, then reheat gently before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salmon and orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or pop them in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
