Why Make This Recipe
Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful dish that brings fresh flavors to your table. It’s easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients. This recipe celebrates the taste of salmon, combined with the zesty brightness of lemon and the comforting texture of orzo. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
How to Make Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them skin side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute.
- Add the orzo and stir for a minute to toast it. Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the orzo is cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Fluff the orzo with a fork and serve topped with the seared salmon and garnish with parsley.
How to Serve Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Serve the Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo warm. You can place the orzo on a plate and top it with the salmon. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down before storing. Place the salmon and orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warm.
Tips to Make Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- Make sure to season your salmon well with salt and pepper for the best flavor.
- Stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
- If you like extra lemon flavor, add more zest or a splash of lemon juice just before serving.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using other types of fish, like trout or tilapia. Adding vegetables, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, to the orzo cooking process can also enhance the dish’s color and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, chicken broth will work fine and add a different flavor to the dish.
2. How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo in advance and store it separately from the salmon. Simply heat them up together when you’re ready to serve!
Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 fillets salmon fillets
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth Can substitute with chicken broth.
- 1 piece lemon (zested and juiced) Use for freshness and acidity.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste Season your salmon well.
- Fresh parsley for garnish Adds color and freshness.
Method
Cooking the Salmon
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Place them skin side down in the skillet.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Orzo
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute.
- Add the orzo and stir for a minute to toast it.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon juice, and zest.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the orzo is cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Fluff the orzo with a fork and serve topped with the seared salmon and garnish with parsley.