Description
A creamy dish featuring orzo, salmon, and spinach, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 fillets salmon, fresh or thawed
- 1/21/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/21/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/41/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/21/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup orzo, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 4 oz fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Add salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Salmon Perfectly: Season salmon and place it skin-side down in a hot skillet with olive oil. Sizzle until it forms a golden crust, ensuring it remains tender inside. Watch closely and avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
- Crisp Up Spinach: After cooking the salmon, add fresh spinach to the same skillet. Note that it is ready when it wilts down to a bright green, emitting a fresh, earthy aroma. Do not allow it to cook too long or it will become mushy.
- Prepare Orzo: Cook orzo in a separate pot of boiling water, ensuring it gently bubbles. Avoid overcooking to maintain the desired al dente texture. Taste to check doneness before draining.
- Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, salmon, and spinach. Stir until well mixed to achieve a uniform creamy texture that is visually inviting.
- Add Creaminess: Fold in heavy cream, ensuring it coats the orzo and other ingredients smoothly for a luscious finish. Do not skimp on cream for optimal appeal.
- Season Generously: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired to enhance flavor. This step is crucial to achieve the ideal taste profile.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The texture may change as the orzo absorbs sauce.
- Expert Tips: For a crispy salmon crust, pat fillets dry before seasoning. Use a high-sided skillet for even cooking and to prevent splatter. Monitor salmon cooking time closely and aim for medium-rare doneness. If orzo turns sticky, check for sufficient liquid and cooking time. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving to enhance flavor.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to restore creaminess.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. Top with fresh herbs before serving for added flavor.
- Recipe Variations: Add diced tomatoes for freshness or incorporate other vegetables like zucchini. Replace salmon with cooked shrimp for a different flavor profile.
- Ingredient Notes: Choose fresh, firm salmon fillets for optimal results. For substitutes, consider sweet paprika or chili powder for a kick, and avocado oil in place of olive oil. Use homemade chicken stock for best flavor or opt for store-bought if necessary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 725
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1012mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 139mg