Light Joanna Gaines Salmon and Orzo Recipe with Herbs

Joanna Gaines’s salmon and orzo bursts with Mediterranean magic, transforming humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

This vibrant dish weaves seafood and grains into a delectable tapestry of flavor.

Each forkful promises a journey through rich, nuanced tastes that awaken your senses.

Herbs and citrus dance across the plate, creating a symphony of freshness.

The recipe balances nutrition with pure indulgence, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Minimal effort yields maximum satisfaction in this elegant, quick-prep meal.

You’ll fall in love with every single, delightful bite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 650 kcal

Servings: 4

Salmon and Orzo Ingredients by Joanna Gaines

• Paprika: Choose bright, vibrant red powder for maximum flavor depth.
• Dried Parsley: Select finely crushed herbs with rich green color.
• Garlic Powder: Look for fine, fragrant powder without clumps.
• Smoked Paprika: Pick rich, deeply colored variety with smoky undertones.
• Salt and Pepper: Opt for freshly ground black pepper and sea salt for robust taste.

• Olive Oil: Select cold-pressed extra virgin for superior taste.
• Butter: Choose unsalted, high-quality dairy for smooth richness.
• Shallot: Pick firm, smooth-skinned bulbs without soft spots.
• Garlic: Select plump cloves with tight, unblemished skin.

• Orzo: Choose premium pasta with smooth, consistent texture.
• Vegetable Broth: Select low-sodium version for controlled seasoning.
• Coconut Milk: Pick full-fat variety for creamy, luxurious consistency.
• Frozen Peas: Select bright green, high-quality brand.
• Shredded Kale: Choose fresh, crisp leaves with deep green color.
• Chili Flakes: Pick authentic, fragrant variety for balanced heat.
• Lemon: Select firm, bright yellow citrus with smooth skin.
• Fresh Parsley: Choose vibrant green herbs with crisp leaves.

Tools Required for Joanna Gaines’ Salmon Recipe

• Large Skillet: Essential for searing salmon and creating creamy orzo base.
• Cutting Board: Perfect for chopping shallots, garlic, and prepping ingredients.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp tool for precise ingredient preparation.
• Measuring Spoons: Helps accurately measure spices and seasonings.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring and coating orzo with buttery mixture.
• Zester or Grater: Needed for creating fresh lemon zest.
• Measuring Cups: Useful for precise liquid measurements.
• Spatula: Helps flip salmon and gently move ingredients in skillet.

Cooking Joanna Gaines’ Salmon and Orzo

• Craft Spicy Salmon Seasoning

Blend a vibrant mix of paprika, dried herbs, garlic powder, and smoky spices to create an explosive flavor profile for your salmon fillets. Massage the seasoning generously, ensuring every inch of the fish is coated with deliciousness.

• Sear Salmon To Golden Bliss

Fire up a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil and watch your salmon transform. Cook each side for a few minutes until a gorgeous golden crust emerges, creating a crispy exterior that locks in all the juicy goodness.

• Build Flavor Foundation

In the same sizzling pan, melt butter and dance some shallots and garlic around until they release their aromatic magic. This simple step creates a flavor base that will elevate your entire dish.

• Toast Orzo With Zesty Charm

Introduce orzo to the skillet, sprinkling in a pinch of chili flakes, lemon zest, and a dash of seasoning. Let the grains get cozy with the buttery mixture, absorbing all those incredible flavors.

• Create Creamy Orzo Magic

Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk, then scatter frozen peas and shredded kale into the mix. Let everything simmer and mingle, creating a luscious, creamy backdrop for your salmon.

• Reunite Salmon And Orzo

Gently nestle the golden salmon back into the orzo landscape. Cover and let the flavors marry, ensuring the fish cooks to tender perfection.

• Final Touch Of Brightness

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle chopped parsley. Serve immediately with an extra lemon wedge, bringing a burst of freshness to your culinary creation.

Tips for Flaky Salmon with Joanna’s Orzo

Unlock the potential of this salmon orzo recipe with these tantalizing tips and variations.

Transform the salmon blend by experimenting with different herb combinations like dried thyme, rosemary, or za’atar for an international flavor profile.

Swap salmon for other proteins like chicken breasts, shrimp, or plant-based alternatives to create endless meal possibilities.

Expand the vegetable medley by adding roasted bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to increase nutritional value and depth of flavor.

Replace coconut milk with almond milk or vegetable broth for those seeking a lighter, dairy-free version of this creamy orzo dish.

Serving Joanna Gaines’ Salmon Meal

• Elevate Plate Presentation: Carefully place salmon atop creamy orzo, ensuring golden sear is visible. Sprinkle fresh parsley for vibrant color contrast.
• Create Restaurant-Style Garnish: Add thin lemon wedges on side of dish, allowing guests to squeeze fresh citrus directly onto salmon and orzo.
• Balance Nutritional Accompaniment: Serve with light mixed green salad dressed in simple vinaigrette to complement rich salmon and creamy orzo texture.
• Enhance Dining Experience: Use white ceramic plates to showcase the golden salmon and green-flecked orzo, making colors pop and meal look professionally prepared.

Prep and Storage for Joanna’s Salmon Orzo

• Meal Preservation Strategies
• Refrigerate Wisely: Store leftover salmon and orzo in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the dish's vibrant flavors intact.
• Portion Separation Technique: Keep salmon and orzo separately to maintain texture and prevent sogginess during storage.
• Quick Reheating Method: Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or coconut milk to restore moisture and prevent dryness.
• Freezing Recommendations: Freeze orzo without salmon for optimal quality, storing in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month, then thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Flavorful Joanna Gaines Salmon And Orzo Recipe

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4.9 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Joanna Gaines salmon and orzo recipe combines Mediterranean flavors with fresh ingredients. Hearty salmon nestles over creamy orzo, creating a comforting weeknight dinner you will savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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• 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off)
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or water
• 1 cup dry orzo
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 2 cups shredded kale
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 shallots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dry parsley
• ½ lemon (juice)
• ½ tsp salt (plus more to taste)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp chili flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (to top)

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Instructions

1. Seasoning Preparation: Craft a robust spice blend by combining paprika, dried parsley, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Generously coat salmon fillets with the aromatic mixture, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
2. Salmon Searing: Ignite a large skillet over medium heat, introducing olive oil. Gently place seasoned salmon fillets, creating a golden-brown exterior by searing 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and reserve on a clean plate, maintaining a partially cooked state.
3. Aromatic Foundation: Within the same skillet, melt butter and introduce finely diced shallots and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, developing a rich flavor base.
4. Orzo Integration: Incorporate orzo into the skillet, seasoning with salt, black pepper, red chili flakes, and lemon zest. Thoroughly coat the pasta with buttery aromatics, creating a flavor-packed foundation.
5. Liquid Infusion: Pour vegetable broth and coconut milk into the skillet, adding frozen peas and shredded kale. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10-12 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Flavor Refinement: Taste and calibrate seasoning, adjusting salt, pepper, or chili flakes to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
7. Final Cooking: Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the orzo, carefully nestling salmon fillets back into the skillet. Cover and cook 5-6 minutes on medium-low heat, allowing salmon to complete cooking and absorb surrounding flavors.
8. Presentation: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an additional lemon juice squeeze. Serve immediately, showcasing the harmonious Mediterranean-inspired culinary creation.

Notes

• Optimize Salmon Seasoning: Thoroughly coat fillets with spice blend for maximum flavor absorption and even coverage.
• Master Searing Technique: Achieve golden-brown crust by searing salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, keeping it partially cooked to prevent dryness.
• Control Orzo Cooking: Stir frequently during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure creamy, evenly cooked texture.
• Balance Flavor Layers: Taste and adjust seasonings progressively, using lemon juice and herbs to enhance the overall taste profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 80mg