Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary! This Creamy Lemon Rice with Pan Fried Salmon is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that combines the richness of perfectly seared salmon with the bright, zesty notes of lemon-infused creamy rice. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will make your taste buds dance and impress even the most discerning food critics right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with chicken broth, half of the lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- While rice is cooking, pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and remaining lemon zest.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until skin becomes crispy and golden brown.
- Carefully flip salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until fish is cooked to medium and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Once rice is cooked, stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Fluff with a fork to create a creamy consistency.
- Plate the creamy lemon rice and top with pan-fried salmon fillets.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips
- Rice Perfection: Always rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which ensures a fluffy, separated texture.
- Salmon Searing Secrets: Pat the salmon fillets completely dry before seasoning to achieve that coveted golden-brown, crispy exterior.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches the perfect 145°F internal temperature—this guarantees moist, perfectly cooked fish every time.
- Cream Consistency: Add heavy cream to the rice off the heat to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth, luxurious texture.
- Zest Tip: Use fresh lemon zest for maximum flavor impact, and reserve some for garnishing to add a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
- Timing is Key: Start cooking the salmon when the rice is almost done to ensure both components are hot and fresh when serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
