Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo! It’s a dish that always feels like a warm hug after a long day. Picture it: tender orzo pasta, flaky salmon, vibrant broccoli, and a generous sprinkling of gooey cheddar cheese. Doesn’t that sound dreamy? I love how it all comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight but you still want something delicious. Trust me, this dish not only satisfies cravings but also packs a nutritious punch. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a treat! Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup orzo pasta: This tiny, rice-shaped pasta cooks up perfectly al dente, soaking in all the flavors of the dish.
- 2 salmon fillets: Fresh, skinless salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe; they’ll cook up flaky and flavorful.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a lovely crunch and a pop of color, plus all those wonderful nutrients!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp or mild cheddar based on your preference; it melts beautifully and adds that rich, creamy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil helps to cook the salmon perfectly while adding a touch of richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a lovely depth of flavor; feel free to use fresh garlic if you have it on hand!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your liking to enhance all the delicious flavors.
How to Prepare Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo
Alright, let’s get cooking! This Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo comes together beautifully with just a few simple steps. I promise, it’s easier than it sounds! Let’s break it down.
Cooking the Orzo
First things first, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be al dente, so keep an eye on it! A little tip: before you drain it, save a cup of that pasta water! It can help later if you need to loosen up the dish.
Preparing the Salmon
While the orzo is cooking, let’s focus on the salmon. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Season your 2 salmon fillets with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s flaky and cooked through. You want that gorgeous golden crust! If you’re unsure, just poke it with a fork; it should flake apart easily.
Steaming the Broccoli
Now, let’s get that broccoli in there! After you’ve flipped the salmon, toss in 2 cups of broccoli florets around the salmon in the same pan. Cover it with a lid and let it steam for about 3-4 minutes. You’re aiming for bright green and tender-crisp broccoli—just the right texture to complement the dish!
Combining the Ingredients
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to mix! In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, flaked salmon, steamed broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Toss everything together gently, adding a splash of that reserved pasta water if you need to help it all come together. The cheese will start to melt into the warm ingredients, creating a creamy, dreamy mixture. And there you have it—your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo is ready to serve!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Flavor-packed with tender salmon, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese.
- Naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets.
- Nutritious ingredients that provide a healthy, balanced meal.
- One-pot meal means less cleanup—who doesn’t love that?
- Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something comforting yet wholesome.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, making it great for meal prep.
- Customizable—feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the cheese to your liking!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo turns out absolutely perfect every time, I’ve got a few pro tips to share! Trust me, these little insights will make a big difference.
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your salmon and broccoli matters! Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also enhance the overall flavor of the dish. If you can, grab wild-caught salmon for its unbeatable taste.
- Don’t overcook the orzo: Keep an eye on that timer! Orzo can go from perfectly al dente to mushy in a flash. Taste it a minute or two before the package says it’s done to ensure it’s just right.
- Season as you go: Layering flavors is key! Don’t be shy with your garlic powder, salt, and pepper while cooking the salmon and broccoli. It really helps to build a robust flavor profile.
- Mix gently: When combining all the ingredients, be gentle! You want to keep that flaky texture of the salmon intact while ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
- Adjust the cheese: Feel free to play around with the amount of cheddar cheese. If you love it extra cheesy, go ahead and add a bit more! Just remember to sprinkle it in toward the end so it melts perfectly.
- Save that pasta water!: Seriously, don’t forget to reserve some of that starchy pasta water! It’s like liquid gold for bringing your dish together and achieving the perfect creamy consistency.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to making a Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo that not only impresses but also delights everyone at the table!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delightful Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
This dish not only fills you up but also offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a fantastic option for a nutritious meal. Enjoy the flavors while knowing you’re treating your body right!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it properly in the fridge before cooking. Frozen salmon can work just as well as fresh, especially if you season it well.
What can I substitute for orzo?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you could use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just be mindful of the cooking times as they may vary.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked fish!
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to toss in any of your favorite veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or even peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed so everything is tender and delicious.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Definitely! Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to reheat it gently to keep the salmon from drying out.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
I recommend reheating in a skillet over low heat. You can add a splash of water or broth to help keep it moist and creamy. Stir gently until warmed through!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo and now you’ve got some leftovers? No problem! Storing it properly will ensure it remains just as tasty for your next meal. Here’s how to do it right:
First off, let your dish cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This step is super important; it helps prevent condensation, which can make your orzo mushy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. I love to keep my leftovers in single-serving containers—it makes for quick grab-and-go meals!
When it comes to reheating, you want to keep that creamy goodness intact. The best method is to use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help keep everything moist while it warms up. Just stir gently until it’s heated through; you don’t want to overdo it or the salmon can dry out.
If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave! Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel to create steam, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot. Remember, patience is key here to keep the flavors vibrant!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll enjoy your Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo just as much on day two or three as you did when it was freshly made. Happy eating!
Print
Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo: 7 Reasons to Indulge Tonight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious dish of orzo pasta, salmon, broccoli, and cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook orzo according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season salmon with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook salmon in the pan for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Add broccoli to the pan and steam for 3-4 minutes.
- Combine cooked orzo, salmon, broccoli, and cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
- Toss to mix well and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo