Orzo, the small, grain-like pasta, has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. When paired with the rich and flavorful salmon, the results are truly mouthwatering. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delectable orzo recipes that feature salmon as the main attraction. From classic pairings like lemon herb and garlic butter to more exotic combinations like coconut curry and Mediterranean salad, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next dinner party or cozy night in.
Lemon Herb Orzo with Pan-Seared Salmon
This refreshing and flavorful dish combines the nutty goodness of orzo pasta with the bright, citrusy taste of lemon and the richness of pan-seared salmon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 oz salmon fillet (wild-caught Alaskan or Pacific)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the salmon fillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and salt.
5. Combine cooked orzo with the pan juices. Serve hot, topped with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Orzo pasta: 8-10 minutes
– Salmon fillet: 6-8 minutes per side
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Smoked Salmon
Elevate your weeknight meal with this Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Smoked Salmon recipe, featuring the rich flavors of smoked salmon and a velvety orzo dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil; reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Add flaked smoked salmon to the skillet; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked orzo and creamy salmon mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Orzo with Grilled Salmon
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful combination of garlicky orzo, rich butter, and perfectly grilled salmon. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 4 cups water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Grill salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
5. Combine cooked orzo and garlic butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve orzo alongside grilled salmon. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Feta Orzo with Baked Salmon
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful combination of tender salmon, creamy orzo, and nutritious spinach. This easy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, wilt spinach leaves in the same skillet with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, wilted spinach, and crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve salmon on top of orzo mixture and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo with Salmon
This recipe combines the bright flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and orzo pasta with the richness of salmon, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillet; cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before flaking into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a separate pan, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes and diced tomatoes; cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked orzo, salmon flakes, and tomato mixture in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dill and Caper Orzo with Poached Salmon
This refreshing summer dish combines the delicate flavor of poached salmon with the bright, citrusy taste of dill and capers. The creamy orzo adds a satisfying richness to this light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring the orzo and water to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped dill and capers to the skillet. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Poach the salmon fillets in boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. To assemble, place a poached salmon fillet on each plate. Serve with a scoop of orzo mixture and garnish with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Orzo with Salmon
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the goodness of roasted vegetables, whole grain orzo, and protein-rich salmon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 1 salmon fillet (6 oz), skin removed
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, toss bell pepper, zucchini, squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
4. Place the salmon fillet on top of the vegetables and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Combine cooked orzo with roasted vegetables and salmon. Sprinkle with thyme and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Orzo with Blackened Salmon
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy cajun orzo dish, paired with blackened salmon for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked orzo to the skillet and toss with the spicy mixture.
5. Preheat a separate skillet over high heat. Blacken salmon fillets in butter, garlic, and lemon juice (if desired), about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve blackened salmon atop the Spicy Cajun Orzo.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Orzo with Salmon
This hearty orzo dish is a perfect blend of earthy flavors and textures, paired with the richness of salmon. It’s an easy and impressive main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Add thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place salmon fillets on top of the mushroom mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Orzo with Oven-Roasted Salmon
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy and the Mediterranean to create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Pesto orzo pairs perfectly with oven-roasted salmon, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo and pesto sauce. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve orzo mixture alongside roasted salmon.
Cooking Time:
– Orzo pasta: 8-10 minutes
– Salmon fillets: 12-15 minutes
Tomato Basil Orzo with Salmon
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and orzo pasta with the rich taste of salmon for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then top with chopped onion and minced garlic.
5. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a large skillet, combine diced tomatoes and chopped basil. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
7. Combine cooked orzo pasta, tomato-basil mixture, and baked salmon.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Lime Orzo with Grilled Salmon
This vibrant dish combines the creamy richness of avocado, the zesty brightness of lime, and the tender flakiness of grilled salmon, all tied together with a bed of nutty orzo. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add diced avocado and stir gently to combine.
3. Grill salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. To serve, place cooked orzo on a plate, top with grilled salmon, and spoon the avocado-lime mixture over the fish. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Orzo with Salmon
This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut curry sauce with the flaky sweetness of salmon, all wrapped up in a flavorful orzo dish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 oz salmon fillet, skin removed
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken while salmon cooks.
5. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Cook in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Fluff cooked orzo with a fork. Stir in coconut curry sauce. Top with cooked salmon.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Salmon
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the rich taste of grilled salmon, all tied together with a medley of Mediterranean vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 4 oz salmon fillet (grilled)
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
2. Grill salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, olives, artichoke hearts, red bell pepper, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grilled salmon and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Orzo with Salmon
This recipe combines the flavors of salmon, broccoli, and cheese with the creaminess of orzo for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked salmon, cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked orzo and salmon-broccoli mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Orzo with Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Balsamic Glazed Orzo dish, paired with succulent salmon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add balsamic glaze and stir to combine with the garlic mixture. Bring to a simmer and let reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Place salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down (if applicable). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Toss cooked orzo with the balsamic glaze mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve glazed orzo alongside the salmon. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Orzo pasta: 8-10 minutes
– Salmon cooking time: 3-4 minutes per side
Sweet Chili Orzo with Salmon
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the sweetness of orzo pasta with the richness of salmon, all tied together with a spicy kick from chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add the sweet chili sauce and chili flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat with the sweet chili mixture.
6. Serve the salmon on top of the orzo, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Orzo with Lemon Butter Salmon
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the bright, citrusy taste of lemon and the richness of salmon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Add cooked orzo and stir until coated with herb mixture.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Dot each fillet with butter. Squeeze lemon juice over the top of each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion Orzo with Salmon
This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the richness of salmon, all wrapped up in a delicious orzo dish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them on top of the caramelized onions in the skillet.
5. Dot the top of each salmon fillet with butter. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve salmon on a bed of orzo, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Orzo Risotto with Salmon and Peas
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the nutty taste of orzo pasta with the richness of salmon and sweetness of peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, diced tomatoes, and white wine (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in cooked orzo pasta, flaked salmon, peas, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the perfect combination of flavors with these 20 mouth-watering orzo recipes featuring salmon as the star ingredient. From classic pairings like lemon herb and creamy parmesan to bold combinations like spicy Cajun and coconut curry, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you prefer your salmon pan-seared, grilled, baked, or poached, these recipes offer a wealth of inspiration for your next meal. With flavors ranging from bright and citrusy to rich and savory, get ready to elevate your culinary game with these delectable orzo and salmon pairings.
