30-Minute Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo: A Fresh and Flavorful Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 30-minute seared salmon with lemon orzo is the perfect combination of a crisp, golden-brown fillet and a light, citrusy pasta. The salmon is pan-seared to perfection, offering a flaky and tender texture, while the orzo, infused with lemon, garlic, and herbs, provides a refreshing contrast. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on taste, nutrition, and simplicity.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 lemon, sliced

For the Lemon Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Orzo

1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Stir in orzo and lightly toast for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in the broth, add salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 10 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.

2. Cook the Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy.
4. Flip the fillets, add butter and lemon slices, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 125-130°F for medium-rare or 135-140°F for medium).
5. Remove from heat and let the salmon rest for a few minutes.

3. Serve

• Plate the salmon fillets over a generous serving of lemon orzo.
• Drizzle with extra lemon juice and garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Variations

• Garlic Butter Salmon: Swap olive oil for butter and add an extra clove of garlic while cooking the salmon.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the orzo for a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Addition: Stir in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted asparagus for extra nutrients.
• Herb Substitute: Try basil or dill instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm salmon and orzo gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

FAQs

How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork, and its internal temperature should reach 125-130°F for medium-rare or 135-140°F for medium.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve a crispy sear.

What can I substitute for orzo?

You can use couscous, quinoa, or small pasta like ditalini for a similar texture.

Can I bake the salmon instead?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes or until it reaches the desired doneness.

How do I keep salmon from sticking to the pan?

Ensure the pan is well-heated before adding the salmon and avoid moving it too soon while searing.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

The salmon is keto-friendly, but orzo is not. Replace it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What other seasonings work well for the salmon?

Try cumin, smoked paprika, or a Cajun spice blend for different flavors.

Can I make the orzo creamier?

Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or a bit more Parmesan cheese for a richer texture.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! Store salmon and orzo separately for the best texture when reheating.

Conclusion

This 30-minute seared salmon with lemon orzo is a quick, flavorful, and well-balanced meal perfect for any occasion. The crispy salmon pairs beautifully with the zesty, herb-infused orzo, making it an easy yet impressive dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or guests, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with minimal effort.

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