Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo
A delightful and healthy dish featuring tender salmon fillets served over zesty lemon orzo pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 pieces salmon fillets Skin-on for best flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the salmon
- Salt and pepper to taste For seasoning
For the Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta Can substitute with other small pasta
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth For cooking the orzo
- 1 piece lemon (zested and juiced) Provides the zesty flavor
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) Adds aromatic flavor
- Fresh parsley for garnish Optional garnish for serving
Instructions
Cooking the Salmon
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, and place them skin-side down in the skillet.
- Cook for about 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
Preparing the Orzo
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add orzo and stir to coat it in the oil.
- Pour in the broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Return the salmon to the skillet to warm through for 1 minute.
Serving
- Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Adjust lemon juice to taste for extra zing. For added flavor, include vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.