Salmon Zucchini Orzo Pasta
A cozy weeknight meal that's quick to prepare, featuring salmon, zucchini, and orzo pasta with bright lemon flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Salmon fillets, fresh or thawed Skin on is fine. Canned salmon can be used, stir in at the end.
- 2 cups Orzo pasta Substitute with small shells or ditalini if necessary.
- 1 medium Zucchini, diced or sliced thin Yellow squash also works.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh is best; substitutes include garlic paste or powder.
- 4 cups Chicken broth or vegetable broth Water can be used, but broth enhances flavor.
- 1 medium Lemon, zested and juiced Fresh lemon is preferred, bottled juice is acceptable.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Pecorino cheese can also be used.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For cooking; butter can be used for a glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon Butter Optional, for a glossy finish.
- to taste Salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 cups Baby spinach Optional, can be added for extra greens.
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved Add for freshness and color.
- 1/4 cup Capers Optional, for added flavor.
- 1 spoon Plain Greek yogurt For optional creaminess.
Instructions
Cooking
- Pat the salmon dry, then season with salt and pepper. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add salmon and cook until it flakes easily, about 3 to 4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Move it to a plate.
- In the same pan, add more oil if dry. Toss in zucchini with a pinch of salt and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until tender but still firm.
- Add minced garlic to the zucchini and stir for about 30 seconds. Then, add the orzo, stirring for another 30 seconds to coat.
- Pour in the broth while scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer, then lower heat to avoid rapid boiling. Stir every minute or two, cooking for about 8 to 10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Turn off the heat and mix in butter, parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice until creamy. Flake the salmon into chunks and fold it in carefully.
- Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon if necessary. Optionally, sprinkle extra parmesan for richness.
Notes
To keep salmon juicy, ensure not to overcook it. Let it rest while cooking orzo. For creamy orzo, add liquid if pan appears dry before orzo is tender. Stir gently to avoid breaking pasta.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g