Description
Whip up this easy 30-Minute Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo for a fresh, flavorful dinner. Perfectly crispy salmon served over creamy lemon-infused orzo with spinach for a satisfying meal!
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
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4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon garlic powder or Italian seasoning
For the Lemon Orzo:
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2 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small shallot, finely chopped
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¼ cup white wine
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2½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
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1½ cups orzo pasta
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½ cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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2 cups fresh baby spinach
Optional Add-ins:
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½ cup diced bell peppers
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½ cup halved cherry tomatoes
For Garnish:
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1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and your choice of garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the salmon fillets and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove the salmon and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Deglaze the pan with the white wine, scraping up any browned bits to build flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the orzo and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broth is mostly absorbed and the orzo is tender.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Let it simmer for another minute to thicken slightly.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Place the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet over the orzo. Spoon some sauce over the salmon to glaze it lightly.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and lemon zest before serving.
