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A perfectly seared salmon fillet with a crispy golden-brown crust sits atop a bed of vibrant, lemon-infused orzo pasta. The plate is garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, with a drizzle of lemon sauce highlighting the dish's bright and inviting appearance. The background features a rustic wooden table setting, emphasizing freshness and simplicity.

Healthy Seared Salmon with Lemony Orzo: 30-Minute Dinner Perfection!

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Healthy Seared Salmon with Lemony Orzo is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful 30-minute dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender seared salmon fillets paired with zesty lemon-infused orzo pasta, this dish is packed with omega-3s, vitamins, and vibrant flavors. Easy to customize with herbs and vegetables, it’s a wholesome meal everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: chopped cherry tomatoes, spinach, or capers for added flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for about 4-5 minutes without moving, until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the Orzo Pasta: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the orzo and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  3. Finish the Lemony Orzo: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and butter. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Mix in chopped parsley for freshness and optional ingredients like cherry tomatoes or spinach if desired. Serve the creamy, lemon-infused orzo alongside the seared salmon for a vibrant, healthy meal.

Notes

  • Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the salmon to achieve a crisp sear.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum flavor.
  • Feel free to swap out orzo for other pasta shapes or grains like quinoa for variety.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables or a light green salad for a complete, balanced meal.
  • Check out healthy turkey taco bowls for more quick dinner ideas.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet with orzo
  • Calories: 460 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Find it online: https://deliciousdailyrecipes.com/healthy-seared-salmon-with-lemony-orzo-30-minute-dinner-perfection/