Description
Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo is a quick and flavorful main course featuring tender, seared salmon cubes paired with a creamy, zesty orzo pasta cooked in fragrant garlic butter and lemon. This dish is perfect for an easy weeknight meal with a Mediterranean-inspired touch, combining healthy proteins and bright citrus flavors for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the salmon bites:
- 1 pound skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
For the lemon butter orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor. Pour in the broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm while preparing the salmon.
- Make the salmon bites: While the orzo cooks, preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. In a mixing bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Place the salmon pieces in a single layer in the hot skillet and sear each side for 2–3 minutes until the outside is golden and the salmon is cooked through. Remove from heat.
- To serve: Plate the lemon butter orzo onto serving dishes. Top with the crispy salmon bites. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve lemon wedges on the side for an extra fresh squeeze of citrus.
Notes
- You can substitute orzo with couscous, quinoa, or rice as preferred.
- Add steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or peas to incorporate more nutrients and color.
