Description
This Salmon Orzo Pasta with Lemon is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired main course featuring tender salmon fillets cooked to perfection and combined with creamy orzo pasta, fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and a bright lemony finish. It’s a comforting yet light dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Main Ingredients
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Flavor Enhancers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Season and Cook Salmon: While the orzo cooks, season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the salmon fillets. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Combine Ingredients: In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the cooked orzo, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream if using. Stir everything until well combined.
- Add Spinach and Flake Salmon: Stir in the baby spinach and cook until it wilts. Meanwhile, flake the cooked salmon into large chunks and gently fold them into the pasta mixture to keep the salmon pieces intact.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes over the pasta if desired. Serve the dish warm and enjoy your flavorful salmon orzo pasta with lemon.
Notes
- For a lighter dish, omit the heavy cream.
- Use leftover or canned salmon for a quicker preparation.
- Add extra vegetables such as peas or asparagus to increase variety and nutrition.
