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Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo: A Quick Mediterranean Delight

Enjoy this quick and customizable Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo, a Mediterranean delight that’s healthy and packed with flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 6 oz Salmon Fillets Opt for skinless fillets for quick cooking.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Ideal for searing.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder or Italian Seasoning Choose based on your taste preference.
For the Orzo
  • 1 tbsp Butter Melted to sauté aromatics.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced.
  • 1 Shallots Finely chopped.
  • 1/4 cup White Wine Can substitute with chicken broth.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Acts as the cooking liquid.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream For a creamy sauce.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated or shaved.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens the dish.
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Adds color and nutrients.
  • to taste Diced Bell Peppers Optional.
  • to taste Cherry Tomatoes Optional.

Equipment

  • non-stick skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the skinless salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Let them rest for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear salmon fillets skin-side down for about 5 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and chopped shallots, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Pour in white wine, scraping any brown bits off the bottom of the skillet. Let simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Stir in chicken broth and orzo pasta. Bring to a gentle simmer, cooking uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Once the orzo is cooked, reduce heat to low and mix in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Combine well until creamy.
  7. Gently return the seared salmon to the skillet. Heat through for 2 minutes, adding fresh baby spinach in the last minute until wilted.
  8. Plate the creamy lemon orzo and top with the salmon fillets, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure salmon fillets are of even thickness for uniform cooking. Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and adjust seasoning before serving.

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