This creamy orzo dish is a real treat! With sweet corn and tender salmon, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Plus, it all comes together in one pot—easy cleanup!
I love how the flavors mix so well. The corn adds a sweet touch while the salmon brings in some richness. You can’t go wrong with this combo! It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo pasta: This small pasta is perfect for creamy dishes like this one. If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use other small pasta shapes such as acini di pepe, ditalini, or even rice for a gluten-free option.
Corn: Fresh corn is the sweetest and adds great texture. If it’s not corn season, frozen corn works just as well and is convenient. You can swap it out for peas if you prefer a different flavor.
Heavy cream: This gives the dish its creaminess. For a lighter alternative, you could use half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt, but the texture may change slightly.
Salmon: Salmon is a great choice for its rich flavor. Feel free to use other fish like trout or cod if you prefer. Also, canned salmon can be an easy substitute in a pinch!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right! Here’s how to ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked:
- Start with a hot skillet and make sure it’s well-oiled. This helps prevent sticking.
- Cook skin-side down first if your salmon has skin; this gives you a crispy texture!
- Avoid moving the salmon too much; let it sear until it’s ready to flip. This takes about 4-5 minutes.
- Flip the salmon gently with a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s opaque and flakes easily.
Using a food thermometer? Cook it until it reaches 145°F (62.8°C) for perfect doneness!
Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Orzo and Cream:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, which means you’ll have dinner ready in just 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Now, throw in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the Corn and Orzo:
Stir in the corn kernels and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Next, add the orzo to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the orzo with the oil, onions, and corn. This adds great flavor!
3. Create the Creamy Base:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. It should be creamy and comforting!
4. Finish the Orzo:
Once cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from heat and keep the orzo warm while you cook the salmon.
5. Cook the Salmon:
In another skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then carefully place them skin-side down in the skillet. Cook them for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are browned and cooked through.
6. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, plate the creamed corn orzo and place a salmon fillet on top of each serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your cozy, delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Yes! While orzo is ideal for this dish, you can substitute it with any small pasta like acini di pepe or even ditalini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as it may vary.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast or a non-dairy cheese in place of Parmesan. Just make sure to check your broth as well for any dairy ingredients.
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This dish is filling on its own, but if you want to serve it with sides, consider a light salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette pairs nicely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the orzo if necessary.