Description
Creamy lemon orzo pairs perfectly with succulent salmon in this Mediterranean-inspired dish. Zesty citrus and herbs elevate each forkful, promising a delightful culinary experience you’ll savor from first bite to last.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 salmon fillets (46 ounces / 1.3 kilograms each)
Fats and Oils:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
Liquid and Pasta:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil to create a non-stick surface for the salmon.
- Gently coat each salmon fillet with a light layer of olive oil, ensuring complete coverage for even cooking and enhanced flavor.
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salmon fillets, distributing the seasonings evenly to enhance the fish’s natural taste.
- Transfer the seasoned salmon to the prepared baking sheet, positioning the fillets with enough space between them to promote uniform heating.
- Slide the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 400F (200C), allowing the salmon to roast for 12-15 minutes until the fish becomes opaque and easily separates with a gentle fork press.
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest momentarily to retain its moisture and tenderness.
- Keep the salmon warm while preparing accompanying side dishes or plating, ensuring it remains at an optimal serving temperature.
Notes
- Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and nutritional value.
- Pat salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden exterior.
- Experiment with different herb combinations like dill, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the salmon’s natural taste.
- Choose sustainable salmon sources to support responsible fishing practices and ocean conservation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 700
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg