Description
This Salmon with Creamy Corn Orzo recipe offers a delightful combination of tender, pan-seared salmon filets paired with a rich and flavorful creamy corn orzo. The dish features aromatic shallots and garlic, toasted orzo simmered with white wine and broth, finished with creamy coconut milk and sun-dried tomatoes for depth and texture. Perfect for a balanced and comforting 30-minute meal that serves four.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 4 salmon filets (skin-on)
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ⅛ tsp pepper
Aromatics & Sauce
- 1 shallot, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 16 oz corn (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup orzo
- ½ cup white wine
- 2 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
- ½ cup full-fat coconut milk
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon filets skin side down in the skillet, then season with sea salt and pepper. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes until the salmon is opaque halfway up the sides. Flip the filets and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely diced shallot and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Toast orzo and add corn: Add the corn and orzo to the skillet and toast them together for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and to develop flavor.
- Simmer with liquids: Pour in the white wine and cook until reduced by half, about 2 to 3 minutes. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the broth. Let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 10 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is nearly tender.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the coconut milk and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Continue cooking until the orzo is al dente and the sauce is creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese if using, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Nestle the salmon filets back into the skillet to rewarm for a minute. Serve generous scoops of the creamy corn orzo alongside the salmon and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Fresh or canned corn can be used depending on availability; fresh corn offers a sweeter taste.
- Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess and a subtle coconut flavor; substitute with heavy cream if preferred.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but provides a nice salty, umami boost.
- Ensure to not overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- White wine reduction adds depth but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version by replacing with extra broth and a splash of lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American