Pesto Salmon with Orzo Cherry Tomatoes & Pine Nuts

Pesto Salmon with Orzo Cherry Tomatoes & Pine Nuts

This Pesto Salmon with Orzo is a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish packed with fresh flavors and textures. Juicy pan-seared salmon is drizzled with homemade basil pesto and served over orzo pasta tossed with cherry tomatoes creamy mozzarella and crunchy pine nuts. It’s an easy yet elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

With a perfect balance of protein healthy fats and fresh ingredients this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Estimated Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

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Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

2 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp paprika

For the Orzo & Toppings

1 cup orzo pasta

1½ cups cherry tomatoes halved

½ cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)

¼ cup toasted pine nuts

¼ cup fresh basil leaves

For the Pesto Sauce

½ cup fresh basil leaves

2 tbsp pine nuts

1 garlic clove

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup olive oil

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook orzo according to package instructions

Drain rinse with cold water and set aside

Make the Pesto

In a blender or food processor combine basil pine nuts garlic and Parmesan

Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth

Season with salt and black pepper to taste

Prepare the Salmon

Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt pepper garlic powder and paprika

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat

Sear the salmon for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through

Assemble the Dish

Toss cooked orzo with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls in a large bowl

Transfer to a serving dish and place salmon fillets on top

Drizzle with pesto sauce and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil

Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful protein-packed meal!

Cooking Tips & Variations

Use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time. Fresh pesto is best but a good quality store-bought version works well
Make it gluten-free by swapping orzo for quinoa cauliflower rice or gluten-free pasta
Want extra crunch Add some arugula or spinach to the orzo mix
Roast the tomatoes for a richer deeper flavor. Simply toss them in olive oil and roast at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 15 minutes
Meal prep-friendly Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge

Q&A

1.Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-searing

Yes Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork

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2. Can I use another type of fish

Absolutely Trout cod or halibut work great as substitutes

3. How can I make this dairy-free

Simply omit the mozzarella and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan in the pesto

4. What can I use instead of pine nuts

Almonds cashews or walnuts make great alternatives

5. How do I store leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values based on standard ingredients)

Calories: ~550 kcal

Protein: 42g

Carbohydrates: 38g

Fats: 28g

Fiber: 3g

Sodium: 420mg

Conclusion

This Pesto Salmon with Orzo is a restaurant-quality meal that’s incredibly easy to make at home. The combination of juicy salmon fresh basil pesto creamy mozzarella and crunchy pine nuts makes every bite absolutely delicious

Perfect for busy weeknights meal prep or even a dinner party this dish brings Mediterranean flavors to your table in just 30 minutes.