Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon – There’s something utterly delightful about the combination of sweet, creamy corn and al dente orzo, all topped with flaky, perfectly cooked salmon. Imagine this dish making an entrance at your dinner table, and your guests’ eyes widen in anticipation as they catch a whiff of its rich aromas. The buttery scent mingling with fresh herbs invites them to dig in and experience a flavor explosion that’s as comforting as a warm hug.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen corn in creamed corn orzo with salmon?
- What can I substitute for salmon in this recipe?
- How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I first stumbled upon this gem of a recipe during a chaotic week filled with work deadlines and family visits. It was one of those evenings when I needed something quick yet impressive to serve my friends who had dropped by unexpectedly. This creamed corn orzo with salmon turned out to be the star of the night, leaving everyone wanting seconds (and maybe thirds). For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
- Its creamy texture paired with tender salmon makes for an irresistible flavor sensation
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, ensuring it steals the spotlight on any table
- You can easily adapt this recipe using seasonal vegetables or different proteins based on your cravings
Gathering around the table after serving this dish is always a memory worth cherishing.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Orzo Pasta: This small pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully; opt for whole wheat for added nutrition.
- Canned Creamed Corn: A shortcut ingredient that brings creaminess without the fuss; choose organic if possible for better taste.
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for bright pink fillets; wild-caught offers more flavor compared to farmed options.
- Shallots: These add a subtle sweetness; finely chop them for an aromatic base that enhances all other flavors.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates any dish; use minced for a robust aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Vegetable Broth: It provides depth and richness; low-sodium broth allows you to control salt levels.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle adds healthy fats and enhances the overall flavor; opt for extra virgin for the best quality.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Basil): These brighten up the dish; chop them finely and sprinkle before serving for freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Salmon: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil. Season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake the Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until flaky and cooked through. Keep an eye on it—the smell will tempt you!
Cook the Orzo Pasta: While your salmon bakes, bring a pot of vegetable broth to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
Sauté Shallots and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in some olive oil. Add finely chopped shallots and sauté until they turn translucent—about 3 minutes—then stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
Add Creamed Corn: Pour in the canned creamed corn into the skillet with shallots and garlic. Stir well while letting it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing all those lovely flavors to meld.
Combine Everything Together: Drain any excess broth from the cooked orzo and fold it into the creamy corn mixture. Gently flake in your baked salmon, mixing everything until combined but still chunky enough for texture.
Now that you’ve made this delightful dish, it’s time to plate up! Serve warm garnished with fresh herbs, maybe even take an Instagram-worthy photo before everyone digs in!
You Must Know
- This delightful creamed corn orzo with salmon brings together creamy texture and smoky flavor
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s simple to make yet impressively delicious
- The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will make your kitchen feel like a five-star restaurant
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the orzo while you sear the salmon for maximum flavor and efficiency. This method keeps everything warm and ready to enjoy simultaneously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap salmon for shrimp or add fresh herbs for extra flavor. You can also try different cheeses to customize the creaminess of your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to keep the orzo from becoming mushy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients, as they elevate the entire dish
- Ensure your salmon is fresh, and don’t skip seasoning!
- A squeeze of lemon brightens flavors wonderfully, especially with cream-based dishes like this one
Cooking this creamed corn orzo with salmon always reminds me of that dinner party where everyone asked for seconds. It felt great to see my friends enjoying something I created! For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips and techniques recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn in creamed corn orzo with salmon?
Yes, frozen corn works well and saves time in preparation.
What can I substitute for salmon in this recipe?
Chicken or tofu are excellent alternatives if you prefer different proteins.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
Salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy creamed corn orzo paired with flaky salmon creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. This quick and easy recipe bursts with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 2 (5 oz) fresh salmon fillets
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet with olive oil and season salmon with salt and pepper.
- Bake the salmon on the prepared sheet for 12-15 minutes until flaky.
- While salmon bakes, bring vegetable broth to a boil in a pot. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes).
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté shallots in olive oil for about 3 minutes. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in creamed corn and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Drain excess broth from cooked orzo and fold into the corn mixture along with flaked salmon. Mix until combined but chunky.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg