Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon

This Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the creamy goodness of fresh corn with flaky salmon, offering a unique flavor experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this one-pot meal is ready in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender orzo and robust seasonings makes it both comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The sweetness of corn paired with Cajun seasoning elevates the taste, pleasing everyone at the table.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a hearty main course or as a side dish to complement other meals.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with protein from salmon and fiber from corn, it’s a wholesome option for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious dish, gather your tools beforehand to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick pan or skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick pan or skillet: Ensures that the ingredients cook evenly without sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife allows for quick and precise cutting of ingredients, saving you time during prep.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware and maintaining even cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 skinless salmon fillets (skin removed)
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 3 sprigs of thyme (more for serving)
• 1 cup orzo
• 3 ears corn
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Chili flakes for serving (optional)

How to Make Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Get your prep done before you start cooking. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning. Grate the Parmesan, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Shuck the Corn

Shuck the corn by removing the husks and silks. Cut each cob in half to create two equal parts. Hold a halved ear of corn upright on your cutting board. Use a large sharp knife to shave the kernels from the cob in long strips. Repeat this process for all ears of corn.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Add salmon fillets and sear them for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Onions and Garlic

Reduce heat to medium, then add minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until soft and fragrant, approximately 2 minutes. Stir in salt, pepper, and thyme leaves.

Step 5: Toast Orzo and Corn

Add orzo and corn kernels to the skillet. Toast these ingredients for about one minute while stirring frequently.

Step 6: Add Broth

Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered while stirring frequently until orzo is almost al dente and most liquid is absorbed—this should take around 10 minutes.

Step 7: Incorporate Creaminess

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese followed by heavy cream and lemon juice. Let simmer for an additional two minutes.

Step 8: Return Salmon

Return seared salmon fillets to the skillet, allowing everything to simmer together for another two–three minutes until salmon is heated through.

Step 9: Serve

Top with fresh thyme sprigs, black pepper, and chili flakes if desired. Enjoy!

This dish brings comfort food to new heights while being simple enough for any home cook!

How to Serve Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon

Serving your Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal presentation and enjoyment.

With Fresh Herbs

• Thyme Sprigs: Garnish the dish with additional fresh thyme for a fragrant touch.
• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.

Pair with Citrus Slices

• Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their salmon, adding brightness to each bite.
• Orange Slices: Provide orange slices to complement the sweetness of the corn.

Accompanying Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette cleanses the palate and balances the richness of the orzo.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crispness and bold flavors that pair well with this dish.

Bread Options

• Crusty Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Add garlic bread as a flavorful side that complements the dish’s savory notes.

How to Perfect Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon

To make your Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon even better, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn kernels enhance sweetness and texture compared to canned corn.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Ensure you don’t overcook the salmon; it should be flaky yet moist when done.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper levels based on personal preference.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal veggies like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try substituting different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese for varied flavors.
• Serve Immediately: This dish tastes best when served right away, so time your cooking accordingly.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon

Adding side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options to consider serving alongside your Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender for a deliciously simple side.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light dressing provides a healthy contrast.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Grilling zucchini enhances its natural sweetness while adding a smoky flavor that pairs well with salmon.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can offer crunch and acidity that balances the creaminess of the main dish.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting addition that complements the meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to keep in mind. Here are some mistakes to avoid when making Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon.

• Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly and becomes dry if overcooked. Aim for a flaky texture by cooking it just until it’s opaque.
• Not Toasting the Orzo: Skipping the toasting step can result in less flavor. Toasting adds a nutty depth that enhances the overall dish.
• Using Fresh Corn Inadequately: Ensure you use enough corn for sweetness and texture. Fresh corn kernels should be abundant for the best taste.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Taste as you go! You may need to adjust salt and spices based on your preferences or the saltiness of your broth.
• Rushing Through Prep Work: Take time to prep ingredients before cooking. This ensures a smoother cooking process and prevents confusion.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon in an airtight container.
• This dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon

• For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• It is best used within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place orzo in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to a skillet, warm over medium heat while stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon that may help clarify your cooking process.

Can I substitute the salmon with another type of fish?

Yes, you can replace salmon with trout or any firm white fish, keeping cooking times similar.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

Is Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal prep.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or substitute it with quinoa or rice.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize this dish by adding different vegetables or using various types of fish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy the creamy goodness!

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Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon is a delightful and comforting one-pot meal that marries the sweet freshness of corn with flaky salmon, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, taking just 30 minutes from prep to plate. The creamy sauce, enriched with Parmesan and herbs, envelopes tender orzo and perfectly seared salmon fillets, making every bite a flavorful experience. Whether served as a main course or paired with your favorite side dishes, this dish offers a nutritious and wholesome option that the whole family will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 3 sprigs of thyme (more for serving)
• 1 cup orzo
• 3 ears corn (kernels)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Chili flakes for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Pat salmon dry and season with salt, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning.
2. Shuck corn and cut kernels from cobs.
3. In a nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and butter; sear salmon on both sides until golden brown, then remove.
4. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant.
5. Add orzo and corn; toast for about 1 minute.
6. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer until orzo is nearly al dente.
7. Stir in Parmesan, heavy cream, and lemon juice; simmer for 2 more minutes.
8. Return salmon to skillet; allow to heat through before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 630mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 80mg