Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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Author: Olivia
Published:
Mediterranean Salmon served with Lemon Orzo on a white plate

why make this recipe

This dish is quick, fresh, and full of bright flavors. It brings together simple pantry items and healthy salmon for a filling weeknight meal. It cooks fast and looks nice on the plate.

introduction

Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a light and bright meal with lemon, tomatoes, and herbs. It uses orzo to soak up flavor and salmon for protein. If you enjoy easy desserts and simple recipes, you might also like this chia pudding with coconut milk as a fresh finish.

how to make Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Cook the salmon first, then make the orzo in the same pan so it keeps the salmon taste. Toast the orzo a little before adding broth for more flavor. Stir in lemon, tomatoes, and parsley near the end. Flake the salmon and fold it into the orzo gently so the fish stays in pieces.

Ingredients :

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/4 cup parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet, searing for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the orzo and toast it for a minute, then pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked al dente.
  3. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
  4. Flake the cooked salmon and gently mix it into the orzo. Serve warm.

how to serve Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serve warm on a plate or in a shallow bowl. Add extra lemon wedges on the side. A small green salad or steamed veggies go well with it. Sprinkle extra parsley for color.

how to store Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Cool the dish to room temperature then put it in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep the orzo moist.

tips to make Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

  • Pat the salmon dry before seasoning so it sears well.
  • Toast the orzo a little to add a nutty taste.
  • Use warm broth to bring the orzo to a simmer faster.
  • Add tomatoes at the end so they stay fresh and bright.
  • Reheat slowly to avoid drying the salmon.

variation (if any)

  • Use chicken or shrimp instead of salmon.
  • Swap parsley for basil or dill for a different herb note.
  • Add spinach or peas for extra greens.
  • Use lemon slices on top for a stronger lemon flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice or another pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes. Cook times will change. Brown rice needs more time and water. Other small pastas work fine but check package directions.

Q: Is it okay to use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
A: Yes. Chicken broth works well and gives a richer flavor.

Q: Can I cook the salmon and orzo together in the oven?
A: You can, but this recipe works best on the stove so you can toast the orzo and sear the salmon first.

Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A: Salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) if you use a thermometer.

Print
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Mediterranean Salmon with Lemon Orzo

  • Author: arianarecipes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

A light and bright meal featuring salmon, orzo, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/4 cup parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet, searing for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add the orzo to the same skillet and toast it for a minute, then pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked al dente.
  3. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
  4. Flake the cooked salmon and gently mix it into the orzo. Serve warm.

Notes

Serve with extra lemon wedges and a small salad for a complete meal. Cool and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Ariana’s Delicious Moments
Hi, I’m Ariana!

A self-taught home cook who loves creating everyday recipes that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly. This blog is where I share the meals I actually make from quick weeknight dinners to sweet weekend treats.Let’s cook together!

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