Salmon Orzo with Spinach & Lemon
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo
- Water for boiling the orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 2 6- ounce salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh lemon wedges
Method
- Cook the orzo - in a large pot, boil water and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain, and set aside.
- In a large pan, add the butter and heat on low heat until melted. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the garlic begins to lightly brown. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and spinach, and stir until spinach has wilted. Toss in the orzo and stir.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet skin-side down (be sure that all bones or scales are removed from the fish before eating). In a small bowl, add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix well to combine, and coat the tops of the salmon.
- Bake salmon at 400 degrees for 12-15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Divide the orzo into two bowls, and serve the salmon on each. Top with fresh lemon to garnish.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
Calories616kcalCarbohydrates60gProtein28gFat29gSaturated Fat15gPolyunsaturated Fat4gMonounsaturated Fat8gTrans Fat0.5gCholesterol110mgSodium805mgPotassium664mgFiber3gSugar3gVitamin A837IUVitamin C2mgCalcium72mgIron2mg
Notes
Variations and Add-Ins
- Top with fresh herbs (like parsley or fresh dill) for a bright fresh flavor.
- Drizzle in some balsamic vinegar for more acidity.
- Add lemon zest along with the juice.
- Add feta cheese or parmesan cheese on top.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, red peppers, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, or pine nuts for an Italian flair.
- Add 1/2 cup of white wine to the sauce.
- Add fresh asparagus, artichoke hearts, and briny olives for a Mediterranean flavor.