Name: Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cucumber; 4 plum tomatoes; 1 tsp salt; ½ lb orzo; 1 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup fresh dill; fresh ground black pepper; 1½ lbs salmon fillet; ½ lemon zest

Experience a delightful combination of flavors with this grilled salmon and orzo salad recipe. Perfectly grilled salmon fillets paired with a refreshing orzo salad make for a healthy and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Photos of Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad Recipe

One ingredient that might not be commonly found in every household is orzo. It is a type of pasta shaped like grains of rice. Additionally, fresh dill and lemon zest might not be staples in your pantry, so be sure to add these to your shopping list when visiting the supermarket.

Ingredients for Grilled Salmon With Orzo Salad

cucumber: A refreshing vegetable that adds a crisp texture to the salad.

plum tomatoes: These tomatoes provide a sweet and juicy element to the salad.

salt: Used to enhance the flavors of both the salad and the salmon.

orzo: A rice-shaped pasta that serves as the base for the salad.

olive oil: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the dish.

lemon juice: Provides a zesty and fresh flavor that brightens the salad.

fresh dill: An herb that adds a distinct and aromatic flavor to the salmon and salad.

fresh ground black pepper: Adds a slight heat and depth to both the salmon and the salad.

salmon fillet: The star of the dish, offering a rich and savory taste.

lemon zest: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.

One reader, Che Everett says:

This grilled salmon with orzo salad recipe is a delightful combination of flavors! The salmon is perfectly seasoned and pairs wonderfully with the fresh, zesty orzo salad. A healthy, delicious meal that's easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Che Everett

Key Techniques for Preparing Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad

How to drain vegetables: Place the cucumber and tomatoes in a strainer set over a medium bowl, toss with salt, and let them drain for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. How to cook orzo: Boil salted water in a large pot, cook the orzo for about 12 minutes until just done, then drain and rinse with cold water. How to grill salmon: Coat the salmon with oil, salt, and pepper, grill skin-side up for 4 minutes, turn, sprinkle with dill and lemon zest, and cook for an additional 3 minutes until golden brown and just barely done.

How To Make Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad

Cook a tasty seafood dish with this grilled salmon seasoned with dill and lemon zest, and comes with bright and refreshing cucumber, tomato, and orzo salad.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cucumber
4plum tomatoes
1tspsalt
½lborzo,(about 1 cup)
1cupolive oil,plus 1 tbsp
2tbsplemon juice,plus 1 tsp
1cupfresh dill,plus 1 tbsp, chopped
fresh ground black pepper
1½lbssalmon fillet
½lemon zest,grated

Instructions

In a strainer set over a medium bowl, toss the cucumber, tomatoes, and ½ teaspoon of the salt and let drain for 15 minutes
In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the orzo for about 12 minutes until just done. Drain. Rinse with cold water and drain thoroughly.
Toss the orzo with the ⅓ cup of oil, the lemon juice, the ⅓ cup of dill, ¼ teaspoon of the salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper.
Light the grill. Coat the salmon with the 1 tablespoon of oil, the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.
Grill the salmon, skin-side up, for 4 minutes. Turn and sprinkle with the 1 tablespoon dill and the lemon zest. Cook the fish for about 3 minutes longer until golden brown and just barely done, with the fish should still be translucent in the center.
Serve the fish on the salad, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1070.55kcal
Fat: 77.98g
Saturated Fat: 12.87g
Monounsaturated Fat: 45.96g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 12.71g
Carbohydrates: 49.23g
Fiber: 3.49g
Sugar: 4.66g
Protein: 43.42g
Cholesterol: 93.55mg
Sodium: 692.60mg
Calcium: 59.18mg
Potassium: 1045.96mg
Iron: 2.29mg
Vitamin A: 38.79µg
Vitamin C: 24.01mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting This Grilled Salmon Recipe

When grilling salmon, make sure to preheat the grill to a high temperature and oil the grates well to prevent sticking. This ensures that the fish gets a nice sear and grill marks, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Grilled Salmon Recipe

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the cucumber and plum tomatoes the night before to save time.

Cook orzo in advance: Boil and drain the orzo ahead of time, then store it in the fridge.

Marinate salmon early: Coat the salmon fillet with olive oil, salt, and pepper a few hours before grilling.

Use a grill pan: If you don't have an outdoor grill, a grill pan can save setup and cleanup time.

Batch lemon zest: Zest the lemon and store it in an airtight container to use when needed.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad Recipe

cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good replacement in salads.
plum tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, providing a similar taste and texture.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly different mineral profile.
orzo - Substitute with couscous: Couscous has a similar small, grain-like shape and can absorb flavors well.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for dressings and cooking.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidic and citrusy flavor.
fresh dill - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a bright, slightly peppery flavor that can complement the dish well.
fresh ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
salmon fillet - Substitute with trout fillet: Trout has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest provides a citrusy aroma and flavor, though slightly sweeter.

How to Beautifully Present This Grilled Salmon Dish

Use a large, white plate: The simplicity of a white plate will make the vibrant colors of the grilled salmon and orzo salad pop, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Create a bed of orzo salad: Place a generous spoonful of the orzo salad in the center of the plate, spreading it out slightly to form a base for the salmon.
Position the salmon fillet: Lay the grilled salmon fillet on top of the orzo salad, slightly off-center to add a dynamic visual appeal.
Garnish with fresh dill: Sprinkle some fresh dill over the salmon and orzo salad to enhance the dish's aroma and add a touch of green.
Add a lemon twist: Place a thin slice of lemon zest on top of the salmon for a bright, citrusy accent.
Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil around the edge of the plate to add a glossy finish and a hint of richness.
Season with fresh ground black pepper: Finish with a few cracks of fresh ground black pepper over the entire dish to enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.
Serve with a side of cucumber and tomato: Arrange a few slices of cucumber and plum tomatoes on the side of the plate for a refreshing contrast and additional color.

Essential Tools for Making Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad

strainer: Used to drain the cucumber and tomatoes, allowing excess liquid to be removed.
medium bowl: Placed under the strainer to catch the draining liquid from the cucumber and tomatoes.
large pot: Used to boil water for cooking the orzo.
grill: Used to cook the salmon fillet, giving it a nice char and flavor.
tongs: Handy for turning the salmon on the grill without breaking it apart.
measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the salt, oil, lemon juice, and pepper.
zester: Used to zest the lemon, adding a fresh citrus flavor to the salmon.
cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the cucumber, tomatoes, and dill.
chef's knife: Used for chopping the cucumber, tomatoes, and fresh dill.
mixing bowl: Used to toss the orzo with the oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
colander: Used to drain the cooked orzo after boiling.
grill brush: Useful for cleaning the grill grates before cooking the salmon.
serving platter: Used to present the grilled salmon on top of the orzo salad.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Grilled Salmon and Orzo Salad

To store leftover grilled salmon and orzo salad, place them in separate airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
The orzo salad can be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge, while the salmon can be gently reheated in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
If you want to freeze the grilled salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To thaw frozen salmon, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it defrost overnight. Once thawed, consume within 24 hours for the best quality and flavor.
It is not recommended to freeze the orzo salad as the texture of the cucumber and tomatoes may become mushy upon thawing. The orzo itself may also become soft and lose its pleasant texture.
If you have leftover orzo without the vegetables, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Salmon and Orzo Salad

Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the leftover grilled salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the fish to help retain moisture. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).
For the orzo salad, transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the salad is heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the orzo salad in a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of water to the pan to help keep the pasta moist. Stir the salad frequently until it's warmed through, about 3-5 minutes.
If you prefer a crispy texture for your reheated salmon, you can use the broiler. Preheat the broiler on high and place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the top of the salmon is slightly crispy and heated through. Keep a close eye on the fish to prevent burning.
To maintain the freshness and flavor of the cucumber and tomatoes in the orzo salad, consider removing them before reheating the pasta. Once the orzo is heated through, add the vegetables back into the salad and toss gently to combine.
If the reheated orzo salad seems dry, drizzle a small amount of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice to help revive the flavors and add moisture. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish the reheated grilled salmon and orzo salad with fresh dill and a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten up the flavors and add a fresh touch to the dish.

Interesting Trivia About Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad

A random fact about this recipe is that orzo is a type of pasta shaped like large grains of rice, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in salads, soups, and side dishes.

Is Making Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad Budget-Friendly?

This grilled salmon with orzo salad recipe is moderately cost-effective. The main expense is the salmon fillet, which can be pricey, but the other ingredients like orzo, cucumber, and plum tomatoes are relatively affordable. The use of olive oil and fresh dill adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall, this dish offers a balance of flavor and nutrition, making it a worthwhile investment for a special meal. Overall Verdict: 7/10. Approximate cost: $25-$30 for a household of 4 people.

Is This Grilled Salmon Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This grilled salmon with orzo salad recipe is a healthy and well-balanced meal. Here's why:

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health
The recipe uses a generous amount of fresh dill, which is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties
Cucumbers and tomatoes provide a good dose of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium
Orzo, a type of pasta, is a source of complex carbohydrates that provide energy and fiber
Olive oil is a healthy fat that can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels
Lemon juice and zest add a burst of vitamin C and flavor without adding excess calories

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Add more vegetables to the salad, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to boost the vitamin and mineral content
Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the dressing to lower the calorie and fat content
Use a low-sodium salt substitute or herbs and spices to flavor the dish instead of relying on salt
Opt for wild-caught salmon, which tends to have lower levels of contaminants compared to farm-raised salmon
Serve the salad over a bed of leafy greens, such as arugula or mixed greens, to add more nutrients and fiber to the meal

Our Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Grilled Salmon Dish

This grilled salmon with orzo salad recipe is a delightful blend of fresh, vibrant flavors and textures. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and fragrant dill complements the tender, perfectly grilled salmon. The orzo, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, adds a refreshing, zesty base. The use of fresh dill and lemon zest enhances the dish's aromatic profile, making it both light and satisfying. Overall, it's a well-balanced, nutritious meal that's perfect for a summer dinner.

Enhance Your Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts caramelized to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a burst of sweetness that complements the grilled salmon beautifully.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with the rich aroma of roasted garlic. This classic comfort food pairs wonderfully with the lemon zest and fresh dill in the orzo salad, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Mango Avocado Salsa: A vibrant and refreshing salsa made with juicy mangoes and creamy avocado. The citrusy notes and fresh herbs in this salsa provide a zesty contrast to the grilled salmon, making each bite a tropical delight.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Butter: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and topped with a luscious lemon butter sauce. The citrus and buttery flavors enhance the salmon and orzo salad, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: A hearty and nutritious salad featuring quinoa and black beans, tossed with colorful vegetables and a zesty lime vinaigrette. This side dish offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that perfectly complement the grilled salmon and orzo salad.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Grilled Salmon

Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad: Dive into a refreshing main course with lemon herb chicken paired with a vibrant quinoa salad. The zesty lemon and fresh herbs perfectly complement the nutty quinoa and crisp vegetables.

Mediterranean Shrimp Skewers with Couscous: Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with succulent shrimp skewers marinated in a blend of spices, served alongside fluffy couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a hint of mint.

Grilled Chicken with Avocado Mango Salsa: Experience a burst of tropical flavors with grilled chicken topped with a refreshing avocado and mango salsa. The creamy avocado and sweet mango create a delightful contrast to the smoky grilled chicken.

Seared Tuna with Asian Slaw: Indulge in a fusion of flavors with seared tuna served alongside a crunchy Asian slaw. The perfectly seared tuna pairs beautifully with the tangy and slightly spicy slaw, making it a perfect main course for any occasion.

Complementary Appetizers and Desserts for This Grilled Salmon Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine large, meaty mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The filling is enhanced with finely chopped spinach and a hint of lemon zest for a fresh, vibrant flavor. These bite-sized treats are baked until golden and bubbly, offering a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear quickly!

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers bring a touch of elegance to any gathering. Picture juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves threaded onto skewers. Drizzle them with a rich balsamic glaze and a splash of extra virgin olive oil to enhance their natural flavors. The combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy elements creates a harmonious bite that is both refreshing and satisfying. These skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Desserts:

Lemon Meringue Tart: Indulge in a delightful Lemon Meringue Tart that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors. The crisp, buttery crust provides a sturdy foundation for a luscious lemon curd filling, which is both zesty and creamy. Topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue, this dessert is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, or slightly warm for a comforting treat. Either way, this tart is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Experience the ultimate indulgence with a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent dessert features a rich, molten center that flows out like liquid gold when you cut into it. The exterior is perfectly baked to a slight crisp, creating a delightful contrast with the gooey interior. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the experience. The combination of warm chocolate and cold cream is a match made in heaven, making this dessert a showstopper at any dinner party.

Why trust this Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of grilled salmon with a refreshing orzo salad. The use of fresh ingredients like cucumber, plum tomatoes, and dill ensures a vibrant and healthy dish. The lemon zest and lemon juice add a zesty brightness that complements the salmon perfectly. With clear instructions and simple steps, even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality meal. Trust this recipe for a delightful and nutritious dining experience.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Grilled Salmon with Orzo Salad recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you'd like to try!

FAQ:

How do I know when the salmon is done?

You'll know the salmon is done when it's golden brown on the outside and still slightly translucent in the center. It should flake easily with a fork but not be dry.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?

Yes, you can use dried dill if you don't have fresh dill on hand. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe.

What can I substitute for orzo if I don't have any?

If you don't have orzo, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or even rice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the grill?

To prevent the salmon from sticking, make sure your grill is clean and well-oiled. Also, coat the salmon with oil before grilling and avoid moving it too much while it cooks.

Can I make the orzo salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the orzo salad ahead of time. Just keep it in the fridge and give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and freshen it up.