Description
This Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo recipe offers a flavorful and quick dish combining tender salmon cubes seasoned with garlic and smoked paprika, pan-seared to golden perfection, paired with a creamy, lemon-infused butter orzo pasta enriched with Parmesan and fresh parsley. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Lemon Butter Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, combine the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated and set aside to allow flavors to meld while preparing the orzo.
- Cook the Orzo: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the orzo and toast it, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Simmer the Orzo: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and water, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
- Finish the Orzo: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Cover the skillet to keep the orzo warm while cooking the salmon.
- Cook the Salmon Bites: Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated salmon cubes in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and just cooked through.
- Plate and Serve: Spoon the lemon butter orzo onto plates and top with the seared salmon bites. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the salmon cubes are of uniform size for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking salmon to achieve a nice sear.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option in the orzo.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, at the end to balance flavors.
- Leftover salmon bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
