Mediterranean Salmon Orzo with Basil Pesto
This Mediterranean Salmon Orzo with Basil Pesto is a vibrant and healthy dish that brings together flaky salmon, tender orzo pasta, and a flavorful basil pesto sauce. Packed with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, this dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s easy to make, full of protein, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Orzo & Vegetables:
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
½ small red onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small zucchini, diced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
For the Basil Pesto:
1 cup fresh basil leaves
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic
⅓ cup olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt & pepper to taste
For Garnish:
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional)
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo (10 minutes)
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon (10-12 minutes)
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a pan over medium heat.
5. Pat the salmon fillets dry and rub with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. For oven baking: Place salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the salmon easily flakes with a fork.
7. For stovetop: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan and cook salmon for 4-5 minutes per side over medium heat.
8. Remove salmon from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Saute the Vegetables (5 minutes)
9. In a large pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
10. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
11. Stir in the minced garlic, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, olives, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Pesto (5 minutes)
12. In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything (5 minutes)
13. Add the cooked orzo to the vegetable pan and toss to combine.
14. Stir in the basil pesto and mix well.
15. Gently flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and fold into the orzo mixture.
16. Sprinkle with feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes (if using).
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
17. Divide onto plates and garnish with fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
18. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes & Tips
Make it Creamy: Add ¼ cup Greek yogurt or a splash of heavy cream to the pesto for a richer sauce.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa.
Protein Options: Swap salmon for grilled shrimp or chicken.
More Veggies: Add roasted red peppers or baby spinach for extra nutrients.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Common Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A:Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought basil pesto works well. Just use about ½ cup.
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
A:Yes! Small pasta shapes like farfalle or couscous can work as substitutes.
Q: Can I meal prep this dish?
A:Yes! Cook everything except the salmon in advance. Store separately and combine when serving.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A:Gently warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth or olive oil to prevent drying out.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 460
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 550mg
This Mediterranean Salmon Orzo with Basil Pesto is a fresh, flavorful, and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!