Description
A delicious and creamy one-pan meal featuring tender salmon fillets served over rich creamed corn orzo, infused with garlic, thyme, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting dinner that combines fresh corn sweetness with savory Cajun-seasoned salmon.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (skin removed)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3 sprigs of thyme (plus more for serving)
- 3 ears corn
Orzo and Cream Sauce
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Chili flakes for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Season the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning to ensure robust flavor.
- Prepare ingredients: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves to have everything ready for cooking.
- Shuck and cut corn: Remove husks and silks from the ears of corn. Cut each ear in half, then hold upright on a cutting board and carefully shave off kernels with a sharp knife in long strips. Set kernels aside.
- Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned and almost cooked through. Remove salmon from skillet and keep warm.
- Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and chopped onion to skillet and cook until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in salt, pepper, and thyme leaves to enhance the taste.
- Toast orzo and corn: Add orzo pasta and freshly shaved corn kernels to skillet. Stir and toast for 1 minute to develop a nutty flavor.
- Simmer orzo: Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until orzo is nearly al dente and most liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
- Add cheese and cream: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Then add heavy cream and lemon juice and simmer for another 2 minutes to create a rich, creamy sauce.
- Reheat salmon: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet with the orzo mixture. Simmer everything together for 2-3 minutes until salmon is heated through and flavors meld.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with additional thyme leaves, freshly ground black pepper, and chili flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy corn orzo with perfectly cooked salmon.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount according to heat preference.
- Use fresh corn when in season for the best sweetness and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking the salmon.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute with coconut cream and omit Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: creamed corn orzo, salmon recipe, one-pan meal, creamy orzo, Cajun salmon, quick dinner, comfort food
