This creamy orzo dish with sweet corn and tender salmon is a true delight! It’s cozy and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
You’ll love how the buttery flavors come together in one pot. I often pair it with a simple salad to add some crunch—yum!
What I really enjoy is how easy it is to prepare. Just cook the orzo, stir in the creamed corn, and add the salmon—dinner done in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives this dish a delightful texture. If you can’t find orzo, you can use any small pasta like farro, ditalini, or even rice for a different spin!
Fresh Corn: Fresh corn kernels provide sweetness. Frozen corn is a great substitute if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw and add it right into the mix.
Creamed Corn: This adds creaminess and sweetness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use just half the amount and replace it with more broth and cream instead.
Salmon: Salmon is delicious, but feel free to swap it for another fish, like trout or tilapia, or even grilled chicken if you prefer it. Tofu works too for a vegetarian option!
How Do You Ensure the Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the salmon just right is key. You want it crispy on the outside and tender inside. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add salmon skin-side down if applicable. Cook without moving for nice browning.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes, then flip carefully. You’ll know it’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from heat as it will continue cooking slightly off the stove.
These tips will help you achieve that perfect salmon every time!
Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup creamed corn
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as tarragon or dill), chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes chopping and measuring the ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking the orzo and salmon—perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Orzo Base:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Toast the Orzo:
Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This will add a lovely nutty flavor to your dish!
3. Add Corn and Cream:
Next, add the fresh corn kernels, creamed corn, heavy cream, and broth to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook Until Creamy:
Reduce the heat slightly and cook, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to cook it until the orzo is tender and the mixture has thickened into a creamy consistency, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Stir in the chopped herbs, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Searing the Salmon:
While your orzo is cooking, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in another skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place the salmon in the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and has a deliciously seared exterior.
6. Serving Up:
To serve, spoon the creamy corn orzo onto plates and top each portion with a salmon fillet. If desired, garnish with fresh dill or parsley for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your rich, creamy corn orzo paired perfectly with crispy, tender salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the orzo for even cooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the salmon and replace it with sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also add chickpeas for protein!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creaminess.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the orzo mixture and cook the salmon ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge, then reheat the orzo and top with the salmon when you’re ready to serve.