Discover the joy of a hearty, nutritious meal with our One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo. This dish combines tender salmon, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese with orzo pasta, all cooked together in one pot for a convenient and delicious dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or a simple yet impressive meal for guests, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Season the salmon pieces with salt and pepper.
- Chop the broccoli into small florets, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Orzo and Broccoli:
- Stir in the orzo pasta and broccoli florets, then pour in the broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked.
- Add the Salmon:
- Gently stir in the salmon pieces.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish the Dish:
- Stir in the milk or cream, shredded cheddar cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
How to Prepare
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the melding of flavors. The orzo pasta absorbs the flavors of the broth and the creamy cheddar, while the salmon and broccoli add texture and nutrients. The hint of lemon brightens the dish, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Serve it hot and fresh from the pot for the best experience.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: About 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing, and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
- Can I substitute another type of fish for salmon? Absolutely! Other firm fish like cod or tilapia work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, substitute the milk or cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese.
- Can I use another type of pasta? While orzo is ideal for this dish, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.