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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Flavor Refinement: Taste and calibrate seasoning, adjusting salt, pepper, or chili flakes to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
- 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.
- 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