Name: 30-Minute Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2-4 salmon fillets, skin-on; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp lemon zest; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal, this 30-minute seared salmon with lemon orzo is perfect for you. With its crispy, golden-brown salmon fillets and a light, zesty orzo infused with fresh herbs and citrus, this dish brings together the best of both worlds: elegance and convenience. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, it’s packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vibrant flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied without being weighed down.

Ingredients

Salmon fillets, skin-on
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Lemon zest
Lemon juice
Orzo pasta
Chicken or vegetable broth
Butter
Garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh dill, chopped
Parmesan cheese, grated
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Preparing the Orzo

Bring a pot of salted water or broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
In a separate pan, heat butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
Drain the orzo and add it to the pan with the garlic, stirring to coat.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and dill. Stir well and remove from heat.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside while you prepare the salmon.

Cooking the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy sear.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy.
Flip the fillets and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets before serving.

Serving

Plate the orzo first, creating a bed for the salmon.
Place the salmon fillets on top of the orzo and garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

Swap the protein: Try using grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu instead of salmon.
Add vegetables: Stir in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added color and nutrients.
Make it dairy-free: Omit Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa.
Spice it up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2-4

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the salmon in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness, or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. The orzo can be reheated in the microwave with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

FAQs

How do I get crispy salmon skin?

Ensure the salmon is dry before cooking, use a hot pan with enough oil, and avoid moving the fillet too much while searing.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! This recipe works well with trout, cod, or halibut.

What can I use instead of orzo?

You can substitute orzo with couscous, rice, quinoa, or pasta shells.

How can I make this dish more filling?

Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

You can cook the orzo in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat and add fresh herbs before serving. The salmon is best cooked fresh.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or a fine grater, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith beneath the yellow skin.

Is orzo pasta or rice?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta made from wheat.

Can I bake the salmon instead?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness.

What herbs pair well with salmon?

Dill, parsley, basil, and thyme all complement salmon beautifully.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The flesh should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F is recommended.

Conclusion

This 30-minute seared salmon with lemon orzo is the perfect combination of quick, healthy, and delicious. With its crispy salmon and vibrant lemon-herb orzo, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers elegance and flavor with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a meal that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying!

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