Description
This Salmon Orzo Pasta Bowl features tender roasted or seared salmon over a bed of lemony orzo pasta, tossed with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil or vinaigrette. It’s a vibrant, protein-packed bowl perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or lemon zest
- For the Orzo Bowl:
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 1/2 cups baby spinach or arugula
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo:
- Boil orzo in salted water according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- Cook the Salmon:
- Season salmon with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Pan-sear over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until flaky.
- Make the Dressing:
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Bowl:
- In a large bowl, toss cooked orzo with spinach, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, herbs, and dressing.
- Flake salmon on top. Add cheese if using and serve warm or chilled.
Notes
- Swap salmon for grilled chicken or chickpeas for variety.
- Add olives or avocado for extra richness.
- Great for meal prep—just keep dressing separate until serving.
- Details
Nutrition
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
