Description

This salmon orzo with lemon dill green recipe is a game-changer for busy evenings, offering a wholesome and incredibly satisfying meal. It is perfect for an easy, healthy, and hearty dinner, serving as a family-friendly alternative to takeout.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs salmon fillets, skin on or off
1 cup orzo pasta, dry
0.25 cup fresh dill, chopped
2 lemons, zested and juiced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 cups green vegetables (e.g., asparagus, spinach, peas)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prep The Salmon: Pat salmon fillets very dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper on all sides.
Sear The Salmon: Heat 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon skin-side down (if applicable). Cook for 4-6 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip, then cook for another 3-5 minutes, until cooked through (internal temperature 145F / 63C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cook The Orzo: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil. Saute minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the dry orzo pasta and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until lightly golden.
Add Liquids And Greens: Pour in the vegetable broth and fresh lemon juice. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. If too dry, splash in an extra 0.25 cup (60ml) of broth. Stir in your chosen green vegetables.
Finish And Combine: Remove skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh dill and lemon zest. Gently flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and fold into the creamy orzo mixture, or serve salmon fillets whole over a bed of orzo. Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Fresh parsley or chives can be used as an herb swap for dill. You can save prep time by using pre-chopped garlic or frozen green vegetables, or air fry salmon at 400F (200C) for 10-14 minutes for a faster cook. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 350 g)
Calories: 650 calories
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 45 g
Cholesterol: 100 mg