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Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon

This creamy corn orzo with perfectly seared salmon is a Mediterranean diet dinner that's healthy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender salmon, creamy orzo, sweet corn, and fresh lemon creates a restaurant-quality meal packed with protein and balanced nutrients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 485
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin removed
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the Orzo - Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook orzo according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sear the Salmon - Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove salmon from skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Creamy Orzo Base - In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in corn kernels and cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Combine Everything - Add the cooked orzo to the skillet along with spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until spinach wilts. Pour in heavy cream (or Greek yogurt) and Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  5. Final Assembly - Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Sprinkle with fresh dill and serve immediately.

Notes

Don't overcook the salmon - it continues to cook after removal from heat. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor. Substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream to make it healthier.