Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience - this Roasted Salmon with Orzo in Vodka Sauce is exactly that culinary magic! Perfectly roasted salmon, tender orzo swimming in a luxurious vodka sauce, and a hint of fresh basil that elevates every single bite. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy meal at home, this recipe promises to be your new go-to showstopper that's surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup vodka sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the salmon cooks evenly and achieves a nice, flaky texture.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the orzo pasta. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, prepare the salmon fillets. Pat each fillet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the fillets and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, place the baking sheet with the salmon in the oven. Roast the salmon for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- While the salmon is roasting, check the orzo. Once it is cooked al dente, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Add the 1 cup of vodka sauce to the orzo and stir gently to combine. Heat the mixture over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through, being careful not to let it boil.
- Once the salmon is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the salmon more flavorful and moist.
- To serve, spoon a generous portion of the orzo with vodka sauce onto each plate. Top with a roasted salmon fillet. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Enjoy your delicious roasted salmon with orzo in vodka sauce!
Tips
- Always pat your salmon fillets dry before seasoning to ensure a beautiful, crisp exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to check salmon doneness - 145°F is the perfect internal temperature.
- Let the salmon rest after cooking to retain maximum moisture and flavor.
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best results.
- Don't overcook the orzo - aim for al dente to maintain the perfect texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon just before serving.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute the vodka sauce with a light cream or tomato sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 727kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 47g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 122mg
