Salmon with Artichoke Orzo
A gourmet dish combining tender salmon fillets with creamy orzo pasta and artichoke hearts, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 pieces skinless salmon fillets
- 1 tsp salt divided
- 1 tsp black pepper divided
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sweet paprika
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 10 oz artichoke hearts packed in oil, drained
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- to taste Chopped parsley for serving
- to taste Chili flakes for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
- Season both sides of the salmon fillets with garlic powder, paprika, and half a teaspoon of salt and pepper.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic, and halve the artichokes.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned salmon fillets to the pan and cook for about three minutes on each side to achieve a golden crust.
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate.
- Reduce heat to medium, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about two minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the dried thyme, remaining salt and pepper, and then add the orzo, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer uncovered, stirring frequently for ten minutes.
- After most liquid is absorbed, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add the halved artichokes and lemon juice, followed by heavy cream, and simmer for a couple more minutes until sauce thickens.
- Return the salmon fillets to the skillet and heat through for another three minutes.
- Top the dish with chili flakes, black pepper, and chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Pair with crusty bread and a simple side salad for a complete meal. For variations, consider adding seasonal vegetables or different proteins.