Craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This orzo and salmon recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, protein, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal for the whole family. This easy recipe is perfect for those mastering homemade cooking or seasoned cooks looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin on or off
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain the orzo and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
While the orzo is cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper. If you prefer a crispier skin, place the salmon skin-side down in an oven-safe skillet brushed with a little olive oil.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes. If using, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon (Optional)
If baking the salmon, place the skillet in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Alternatively, you can pan-fry the salmon in the same skillet with the vegetables, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillet.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Stir in the cooked orzo, fresh dill, and lemon juice into the skillet with the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you baked the salmon, gently flake it into the orzo mixture. If you pan-fried it, add the cooked salmon to the skillet with the orzo.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the garlic.
- If you don't have fresh dill, you can use dried dill – just use about 1 tablespoon.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach, to the skillet.
- This dish is even better the next day! Leftovers are perfect for lunch.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Salmon Orzo: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest and a mix of fresh herbs like parsley and thyme.
- Spicy Salmon Orzo: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Creamy Salmon Orzo: Stir in a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream at the end for a richer dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This orzo and salmon recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal! It's one of the best recipes for a balanced and flavorful dinner. This recipe is easily adaptable to your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.