Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon-Dill Orzo

Flaky pan-seared salmon fillets seasoned with a touch of Mediterranean flair, served alongside creamy orzo pasta brightened with lemon and fresh dill, and crisp steamed green beans for a complete and satisfying weeknight meal.

• Prep: 10 min
• Cook: 15 min
• Total: 25 min
• Servings: 6
• Cuisine: American
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cost: $2.06/serving

Dietary

• Nut-Free
• Soy-Free
• Egg-Free
• Low-Sugar
• High-Protein

Tags

• healthy
• quick
• sauté
• savory

Ingredients

• 6 ounce salmon fillet (6-ounce, skin-on or off)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (divided)
• 1.5 cup orzo pasta
• 3 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 clove garlic (minced)
• 0.25 cup fresh dill (chopped)
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 pound green beans (fresh, trimmed)

Instructions

1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 3/4 teaspoon of the salt and 1/4 teaspoon of the black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add salmon fillets, skin-side down if applicable, and sear for 4-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. Flip the salmon and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on thickness. Remove salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate, tented with foil to keep warm.
4. While salmon cooks, bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until al dente.
5. In a separate medium saucepan with a steamer basket, bring about 1 inch of water to a boil. Add the green beans, cover, and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
6. Once orzo is cooked, drain any remaining broth if necessary, though most should be absorbed. Stir in butter, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until butter is melted and everything is well combined.
7. Serve the pan-seared salmon immediately alongside the lemon-dill orzo and steamed green beans.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 490
• Protein: 37.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 41.2 g
• Fat: 19.8 g
• Fiber: 4.1 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Saturated Fat: 5.9 g
• Sugar: 1.5 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg