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Salmon with lemon orzo

Salmon with Lemon Orzo

This dish is perfect all year round, but it’s especially great in spring and summer when you crave something light yet filling. The combination of juicy salmon, zesty lemon, and tender orzo pasta makes every bite delicious. Plus, it all comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 2 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Zester or grater
  • Juicer or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting Board and Knife

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon:

  • 2 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Lemon Orzo:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

  • In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in 1 cup of orzo and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed.
  • Stir in 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, ¼ cup grated Parmesan (if using), and chopped parsley. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

  • While the orzo is cooking, pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and lemon zest.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until crispy. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon just before removing it from the heat.

Step 3: Serve & Enjoy

  • Fluff the lemon orzo with a fork and divide it onto plates.
  • Top each serving with a salmon fillet.
  • Garnish with extra parsley and lemon slices for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~550 kcal
  • Protein: ~42g
  • Carbohydrates: ~50g
  • Fats: ~20g
  • Saturated Fat: ~4g
  • Fiber: ~4g
  • Sugar: ~3g
  • Sodium: ~600mg
This dish is high in protein and healthy fats from the salmon while providing fiber and essential vitamins from the orzo and fresh herbs. It’s a well-balanced meal that keeps you full and energized!
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating!
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Keyword dinner recipes, salmon recipes, salmon with lemon orzo