Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe because it’s the perfect balance of fresh, bright citrus and rich, comforting creaminess. When I first tried making this dish, I was blown away by how the lemon and garlic genuinely elevate the flavors without overpowering the tender salmon and shrimp. It’s one of those meals that works well for a cozy weeknight dinner or even when you want to impress guests because it feels special but comes together surprisingly easily.

You’ll find that the orzo soaks up the garlicky, lemony sauce beautifully, and pairing it with perfectly seared salmon and shrimp makes every bite satisfying. I used to struggle with cooking seafood and pasta in one dish without things getting dry or rubbery, but this recipe has a great balance of timing and technique to avoid that. Trust me, once you try it, this Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe will become a go-to you’ll want to revisit often.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients complement each other beautifully to create that creamy, bright, and savory flavor profile. I recommend looking for high-quality fresh salmon and shrimp since they really shine in this dish.

• Salmon Filets: Opt for fresh or thawed wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the marinade and cooking; it adds depth to the dish.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang to the salmon marinade that complements the lemon.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is key for vibrant citrus notes—bottled just doesn’t compare.
• Smoked Paprika: Gives a warm smoky undertone without heat, perfect for the seafood.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the garlicky flavor without overpowering the fresh minced garlic used later.
• Salt and Pepper: Always season generously to bring out all the flavors.
• Raw Jumbo Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these cook quickly and add great texture contrast.
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning: Adds a bright, zesty flavor to the shrimp.
• Salted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a luscious sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: Their concentrated flavor gives a subtle sweetness and umami punch.
• Fresh Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic is a game-changer in the sauce, providing fresh aroma and depth.
• Orzo Pasta: This petite pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors like a dream.
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base: Imparts a savory backbone to the sauce; you can swap for broth if you prefer.
• Herbs De Provence: A fragrant mix of herbs that pairs wonderfully with lemon and seafood.
• Heavy Cream: For that creamy texture you’ll adore—don’t skimp here.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
• Fresh Parsley: Brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal finish.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on the season or what’s in my fridge. Feel free to swap ingredients or add your personal twist—I promise it works well no matter how you customize it!

• Gluten-Free Twist: I replaced the orzo with quinoa once and it was delicious—just be mindful of cooking times.
• Dairy-Free Version: Using coconut cream and nutritional yeast transforms the sauce nicely without losing creaminess.
• Alternate Proteins: Grilled chicken or firm tofu work well if you want a different protein or meatless option.
• Herb Variations: I sometimes swap Herbs De Provence for fresh thyme and basil when I have them on hand—adds a fresh garden touch.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Salmon for Flavor Infusion

Start by mixing olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour this marinade over the salmon filets and let them rest for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps the salmon soak up all those bright, savory flavors without being overpowering. I usually prep this first thing so the salmon has enough time to absorb the marinade while I get other ingredients ready.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

While the salmon marinates, toss the peeled shrimp with olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, and smoked paprika in another bowl. Set aside to let the shrimp take on those flavors, which will complement the creamy orzo perfectly once cooked.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon to Crispy Perfection

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated salmon and cook for about 4 minutes per side until golden and crisp on the outside but tender inside. Removing the salmon carefully and setting it aside prevents overcooking later, which is something I’ve learned through experience—overcooked salmon can really dry out.

Step 4: Build the Flavored Base for the Orzo

In the same skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for a couple of minutes to release their rich flavor, followed by minced garlic for another minute until everything smells heavenly. This flavor base is what takes the orzo from ordinary to extraordinary and gives that irresistible hint of sweetness and garlicky aroma.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo with Broth and Herbs

Stir in the orzo pasta, Better Than Bouillon, and water (or chicken broth as a shortcut). Season with Herbs De Provence, then bring to a boil. Cover and reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking or sticking. This step is where patience pays off—perfectly cooked orzo is tender, not mushy, and soaked in the flavorful broth.

Step 6: Finish the Creamy Sauce

Once the orzo is ready, stir in butter, heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix well until the sauce is creamy and beautifully coats each little pasta piece. I love grabbing a spoon here and tasting—it’s such a comforting, delicious moment when everything comes together perfectly.

Step 7: Cook the Shrimp Separately to Keep Tenderness

In a separate skillet, melt butter and cook the seasoned shrimp for 4 to 5 minutes, flipping once. Be careful not to overcook here because shrimp can get rubbery quickly. I check for opacity and a slight pink color as my guide to pull them off heat at the right time.

Step 8: Plate and Garnish

To serve, spoon the creamy orzo onto plates, place the salmon fillets on top, and then layer the shrimp over everything. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Trust me, your family and friends are going to go crazy for this presentation and flavor combo!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with plenty of chopped fresh parsley because it adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note. Sometimes, I also add a little extra Parmesan shaved on top and just a touch of lemon zest when I want to amp up the citrus aroma—it’s such a simple way to make it feel gourmet.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with a light mixed green salad dressed simply in olive oil and lemon juice or a crisp cucumber and tomato salad for contrast. For something warm, I like roasting asparagus or green beans seasoned with garlic and lemon alongside, which complements the seafood flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve plated this in shallow bowls with the orzo spread out evenly, then layered skewered shrimp and a single salmon filet on top, garnished with lemon wedges on the side. It makes the presentation elegant and easy to serve. You can also add edible flowers or microgreens for a pretty finishing touch if you’re feeling fancy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since the seafood is delicate, it’s best to eat it soon, but the orzo sauce holds up well. I find that the lemon flavor brightens back up nicely when reheated.

Freezing

I recommend freezing the orzo separately if you want to meal prep, as salmon and shrimp don’t freeze as well cooked in this creamy sauce. The orzo keeps perfectly in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the orzo on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. For salmon and shrimp, I prefer warming them separately in a low oven or microwave just until heated through to maintain their texture. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep everything tender.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it brings together bright, fresh flavors with comforting creaminess in such an easy way. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, you’ll find it rewarding and delicious. Give it a go—you’re going to love how effortlessly impressive this meal feels, and I can’t wait for it to become one of your favorites too!

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