Lemon Herb Orzo with Seared Salmon
Looking for a fresh and easy dinner that feels fancy but takes no time at all? This Lemon Herb Orzo with Seared Salmon is light, zesty, and packed with flavor—perfect for a weeknight win or a weekend treat!
If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal that’s packed with fresh flavors, this Lemon Herb Orzo with Seared Salmon is the perfect dish!
It’s a quick and easy recipe that combines tender orzo, zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and crispy seared salmon for a balanced, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this dish is as simple as it is delicious—with every bite bursting with bright, citrusy, and herby goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Bright & Fresh Flavors – Lemon zest and fresh dill bring a vibrant, refreshing taste.
✔ Perfectly Seared Salmon – Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔ Healthy & Wholesome – Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies.
✔ Versatile – Works great for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!
Ingredients
● 1 cup orzo pasta
● 2 salmon fillets
● 1 tbsp olive oil
● 2 cloves garlic, minced
● ½ tsp salt & pepper
● 1 tbsp lemon zest
● ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
● ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
● ½ cup arugula
Instructions
1. Cook the Orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Salmon
● Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
● Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
● Place the salmon in the pan skin-side down and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Prepare the Orzo Mixture
● In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
● Toss in the cooked orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, and arugula, stirring to combine.
● Stir in the lemon zest and fresh dill for a burst of flavor.
4. Serve & Enjoy
● Plate the orzo mixture and top each serving with a seared salmon fillet.
● Garnish with extra dill, black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
How to Serve It
➤ As a Light Dinner – Enjoy it as is, served warm or at room temperature.
➤ In a Bowl Meal – Add avocado or feta cheese for extra creaminess.
➤ With a Glass of Wine – Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of fish instead of salmon?
Yes! This dish works beautifully with trout, cod, halibut, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. What can I substitute for orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use couscous, quinoa, rice, or even small pasta like ditalini or pearl barley.
3. How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the pan?
Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the salmon. Also, pat the salmon dry and use enough oil to create a nonstick surface.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the orzo mixture ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The salmon is best fresh, but you can reheat it gently in a pan to keep it crispy.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or broth.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Herb Orzo with Seared Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that’s bursting with fresh, citrusy flavors.
It’s light, nutritious, and comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Give it a try and enjoy a bright, flavorful meal that feels fancy but is oh-so-easy to make!
More Content You May Like
● Air Fryer Salmon (Under 15 Minutes)
● Easy Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta
