Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Why Make This Recipe

Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delicious and healthy meal. It combines tender salmon with flavorful orzo pasta and lemon.

This dish is easy to make and full of fresh ingredients. It’s a great choice for a busy weeknight or a special dinner.

How To Make Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sear the salmon in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Stir in the orzo and lemon zest. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Stir in lemon juice and add more salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Serve the orzo topped with the seared salmon and garnish with fresh parsley.
Mediterranean salmon served with lemon orzo and peas, topped with parsley and fresh lemon slices for bright flavor

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving has about 350 calories, 25 grams of protein, and 15 grams of fat.

How To Serve Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serve the salmon over a bed of lemon orzo. You can add a lemon wedge on the side for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How To Store Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it on the stove over low heat.

Tips To Make Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

  • Make sure not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry. Check for doneness with a fork.
  • You can use whole wheat orzo for a healthier option.
  • Add some spinach or cherry tomatoes to the orzo for extra color and nutrition.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

This recipe is packed with healthy ingredients. Salmon is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart. The orzo provides carbohydrates for energy. Lemon adds vitamin C, which is great for your immune system. This dish is balanced and nutritious, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Variation (If Any)

You can change the recipe to fit your taste. Try using different herbs like dill or basil for a fresh twist. You can also substitute quinoa for orzo if you prefer a gluten-free option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

2. Is orzo gluten-free?
No, orzo is made from wheat. If you need a gluten-free option, use rice or quinoa instead.

3. Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo and sear the salmon ahead of time. Just reheat both before serving.