Tomato Orzo with Grilled Salmon
Got some leftover salmon from yesterday's meal? Try Salmon Orzo Pasta! It's quick to make, packed with creamy tomato sauce, and bursting with bold flavors we all enjoy.
Ingredients
- 500 g about 17.6 ounces orzo
- 250 g about 8.8 ounces cherry tomatoes
- 3-4 garlic cloves grated or chopped
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp pesto
- 1 cube vegetable stock
- Salt
- Pepper
- 100 g about 3.5 ounces grated parmesan
- 4 salmon fillets or grilled salmon leftovers
- Basil
- Chilli flakes to serve
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the garlic and fry for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the pan. Add the pesto and cook for approximately 5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Stir in the orzo and vegetable stock cube dissolved in 800 ml of hot water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- If you have grilled salmon leftovers, remove the skin from the fillets, cut them into cubes, and grill them in a nonstick pan for 3-4 minutes until nicely browned. Ensure even grilling by tossing them occasionally. Set aside until ready to use.
- Season the orzo with salt and pepper to taste, then add torn basil leaves and stir to combine.
- Spoon the orzo into serving bowls, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, sprinkle with grated parmesan, and add a pinch of chili flakes if desired. Finish by topping each bowl with the grilled salmon cubes and a splash of lemon juice. Serve hot and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Orzo Cooking Time: Be mindful of the cooking time for the orzo to ensure it doesn't become mushy. Follow the instructions closely and stir occasionally.
- Salmon Leftovers: If using leftover grilled salmon, ensure it is properly reheated before adding it to the dish. This will ensure food safety and enhance the flavor.
- Seasoning: Taste the orzo before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
- Garnish: The garnishes such as grated parmesan, basil, and chili flakes add extra flavor and visual appeal to the dish. Feel free to customize or omit based on your taste preferences.
- Serving: Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Variations: You can customize this recipe by adding additional vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.