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Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 106 reviews

Creamed Corn Orzo with Salmon is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender, spiced salmon fillets served atop a creamy, cheesy orzo cooked with fresh corn and aromatic herbs. This recipe harmoniously blends savory Cajun-seasoned salmon with a luscious, velvety orzo side, punctuated by hints of garlic, thyme, and a touch of lemon for brightness. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 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

Orzo and Creamed Corn

  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 3 sprigs of thyme (plus more for serving)
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 3 ears corn (kernels removed)
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Chili flakes for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. While the skillet heats, season the salmon fillets evenly with salt, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning. Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the salmon fillets and cook on each side for about 4-5 minutes or until fully cooked through and nicely seared. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This will incorporate the flavors left behind from the salmon and build a rich base for the orzo.
  3. Add Herbs and Orzo: Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and arrange the thyme sprigs in the pan. Add the orzo and stir for 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to toast slightly and absorb the aromatics.
  4. Add Corn and Liquid: Stir in the fresh corn kernels, then carefully pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Create Creamed Corn Orzo: Remove the thyme sprigs. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Continue to cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes creamy and thickened, about 3-5 minutes more. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  6. Serve: Plate the creamed corn orzo and top each serving with a cooked salmon fillet. Garnish with additional fresh thyme and a pinch of chili flakes if desired for a slight heat boost. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Removing the skin from salmon helps achieve a more delicate texture and allows seasoning to penetrate better.
  • Fresh corn kernels provide natural sweetness and texture; if unavailable, frozen corn can be used as a substitute.
  • Adjust the Cajun seasoning amount according to your spice preference.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the dish will be less creamy.
  • Using chicken broth adds depth; vegetable broth can be substituted to make this recipe pescatarian.
  • To keep the salmon moist, avoid overcooking; salmon should flake easily but remain tender.

Keywords: creamed corn orzo, salmon recipe, Cajun salmon, creamy pasta, one-pan dinner, easy salmon dinner, comforting meals, seafood and pasta, garlic orzo, fresh corn recipe

Find it online: https://kitchenbynora.com/creamed-corn-orzo-with-salmon-recipe/