Ingredients
To create this delicious meal, you’ll need a combination of fresh and pantry ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 salmon fillets, skinless
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
If you find yourself short on ingredients, don’t worry! You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, and if fresh spinach is unavailable, frozen works just as well. Remember, cooking is all about flexibility and making the dish your own.
Instructions
Ready to bring a little piece of Tuscany into your home? Follow these steps to create your own Creamy Tuscan Salmon Orzo:
- Begin by cooking the orzo according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Place the salmon in the skillet, searing for about 4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach, allowing it to wilt slightly, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
- Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy orzo mixture. Allow them to warm through for about 2 minutes.
- Finish by garnishing with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, and enjoy the taste of Tuscany with a Southern twist!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International