Description
Mediterranean salmon nestles atop herbed orzo, creating a luxurious plate that whisks palates to coastal Greece. Delicate fish mingles with aromatic herbs, inviting you to savor each Mediterranean-inspired bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 salmon fillets
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
Grains and Liquids:
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 3 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
Cheese and Citrus:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon by generously coating both sides with a blend of aromatic spices, creating a flavorful exterior that will enhance the fish’s natural taste.
- Initialize the orzo cooking process by gently sautéing aromatic onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their essential oils.
- Introduce the orzo to the pan, allowing it to toast briefly, which will develop a nutty undertone and add depth to the overall dish.
- Hydrate the orzo with warm broth, ensuring it simmers gently and absorbs the liquid completely, transforming into a creamy, tender base.
- While the orzo cooks, focus on preparing the salmon by searing it in a hot skillet, creating a golden-brown crust that locks in moisture and flavor.
- Once the orzo reaches the perfect consistency, elevate its profile by folding in vibrant spinach leaves, which will wilt and integrate seamlessly into the dish.
- Enhance the flavor profile with fresh dill and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, adding complexity and a subtle richness to the preparation.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the mixture, providing a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness and balances the dish.
- Delicately break the salmon into rustic chunks and incorporate it into the orzo, allowing the fish to mingle with the herbs and grains.
- Present the dish on warm plates, garnishing with additional dill and a light dusting of Parmesan to create an visually appealing and appetizing final touch.
Notes
- Choose sustainable, wild-caught salmon for better flavor and nutrition.
- Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden-brown exterior when searing.
- Toast orzo briefly in pan to enhance nutty, rich flavor profile before adding liquid.
- Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast to make dish dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg