Description
Mediterranean-inspired salmon and orzo promises a luxurious dinner experience. Fresh salmon nestles perfectly with herbed orzo, creating a harmonious plate that delivers elegant flavors from first bite to last.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 4 salmon fillets, skin on or off
Seasoning Blend:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dry parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
Base and Vegetables:
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 2 cups shredded kale
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon butter, dairy or plant-based
- 2 shallots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- Juice from ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes
- Fresh parsley, to top
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon seasoning by mixing paprika, dried parsley, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl. Thoroughly coat the salmon fillets with the spice blend, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of olive oil. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. The salmon should remain partially cooked as it will continue cooking with the orzo. Transfer the salmon to a clean plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of butter. Add finely diced shallots and minced garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until they become aromatic and slightly translucent.
- Introduce the orzo to the skillet, along with additional salt, freshly ground black pepper, red chili flakes, and lemon zest. Stir thoroughly to ensure the orzo is evenly coated with the butter and aromatics.
- Pour in 2 cups (480 milliliters) of vegetable broth, 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) of coconut milk, frozen peas, and shredded kale. Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Taste the orzo and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, black pepper, or chili flakes to enhance the flavor profile according to personal preference.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the orzo and carefully return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Cover and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes on medium-low heat, allowing the salmon to finish cooking and absorb the surrounding flavors.
- Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.
Notes
- Fresh citrus transforms the entire dish with its vibrant, zesty punch that elevates every single bite.
- Professional chefs recommend stirring orzo consistently to maintain its creamy texture and prevent stubborn bottom burning.
- Wide skillets create the perfect cooking environment, ensuring even heat distribution and comfortable salmon placement.
- Monitoring seasoning levels guarantees a perfectly balanced flavor profile that matches your personal taste preferences.
- Golden searing techniques protect salmon’s delicate texture, allowing gentle finishing during the final cooking stage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 570 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg