Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo

Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with the bright zest of lemon. This meal is not only delicious but also easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The crispy salmon bites paired with creamy orzo create a wonderful mix of textures and tastes.

Why Make This Recipe

You should consider making Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo for several reasons. First, it is a quick recipe that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings. Second, salmon is a healthy choice packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients. Lastly, the lemon butter orzo adds a comforting and tasty side that balances the richness of the salmon. If you want a simple meal that tastes fantastic, this recipe is an excellent option.

How to Make Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo

Ingredients

• 1 lb skinless salmon fillet, cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Orzo: In a saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add orzo and toast for 2 minutes, stirring until it is lightly golden. Pour in broth or water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir in garlic, lemon juice and zest, Parmesan, remaining butter, salt, and pepper. Cover and set aside.

2. Cook the Salmon Bites: Toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature should be 145°F/63°C). Drizzle with lemon juice just before removing from heat.

3. Assemble and Serve: Spoon lemon butter orzo onto plates. Top with salmon bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and a bit of extra lemon zest if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo

Serve Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo on a large plate or in shallow bowls. You can add a few extra parsley leaves or a slice of lemon on the side for decoration. This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Store Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo

If you have leftovers, you can store Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

Tips to Make Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo

• Make sure not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry. Aim for a golden crust and a moist center.
• You can toast the orzo a bit longer if you want a nuttier flavor.
• Experiment with adding vegetables, like peas or spinach, to the orzo for added nutrition and color.

Variation

Feel free to customize this recipe! You can swap the salmon for chicken or shrimp if you prefer. Additionally, a different type of pasta can be used instead of orzo.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking for best results.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the orzo and cook the salmon bites ahead of time. Just reheat them separately when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I serve with Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo?
   This dish goes well with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or a light soup for a complete meal.

Enjoy making and eating this scrumptious meal that’s sure to impress!

Salmon Bites with Lemon Butter Orzo

---

• Author: hamidkom
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Pescatarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Delightful salmon bites paired with creamy lemon butter orzo, perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner.

---

Ingredients

• 1 lb skinless salmon fillet, cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add orzo and toast for 2 minutes, stirring until it is lightly golden. Pour in broth or water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir in garlic, lemon juice and zest, Parmesan, remaining butter, salt, and pepper. Cover and set aside.
2. Toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature should be 145°F/63°C). Drizzle with lemon juice just before removing from heat.
3. Spoon lemon butter orzo onto plates. Top with salmon bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and a bit of extra lemon zest if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the salmon. You can customize the recipe with chicken or shrimp, or use different types of pasta.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Seared & Simmered
• Cuisine: American