Print

Creamy Salmon Risoni

Creamy Salmon Risoni

Creamy Salmon Risoni is a comforting and indulgent dinner that combines tender salmon fillets with velvety cream sauce and perfectly cooked risoni pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish offers rich flavor, a creamy texture, and a healthy boost from omega-3 rich salmon and fresh herbs. Perfect for quick weeknights or a special treat with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 2 fresh skinless salmon fillets

Pasta and Dairy

  • 1 cup risoni pasta (or orzo)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Aromatics and Flavorings

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, parsley, or chives, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Cook the salmon skinless side down for 3–4 minutes until golden and cooked through but still moist inside. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté gently for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant, forming the flavor base for the sauce.
  3. Cook the Risoni: Add the risoni pasta to the pan and toast briefly, stirring to coat evenly in butter and oil. Pour in chicken or vegetable stock, bring to a simmer, and cook until risoni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring frequently.
  4. Make It Creamy: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix gently until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the risoni.
  5. Combine and Serve: Flake the cooked salmon into large chunks and fold carefully into the creamy risoni. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top, season with salt and pepper to taste, and plate immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh salmon for best texture and flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the risoni to maintain an al dente texture.
  • Toast the risoni before cooking to add depth of flavor and prevent sticking.
  • Add a splash of reserved pasta water or stock if the sauce becomes too thick.
  • Add fresh herbs at the very end for maximum aroma and freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, risoni, orzo, creamy pasta, quick dinner, weeknight meal, seafood pasta, comfort food