Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe

If you’re looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe is pure magic. I absolutely love how the rich, velvety orzo mingles with bright citrus and bold garlic flavors, elevating simple seafood into something worthy of any dinner party – or a cozy weeknight meal. It’s fresh yet indulgent, perfectly balancing creamy and zesty notes that keep you coming back for more.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed by how quickly it came together without feeling rushed or complicated. You’ll find that whether you’re whipping this up for a “treat yo’ self” kind of night or hosting someone special, it always delivers those wow-factor flavors. Plus, the combo of salmon and shrimp makes it exciting, but still approachable for cooks of any level.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Fresh seafood, aromatic garlic, and bright lemon juice all work in harmony, while sun-dried tomatoes deepen the taste with a little chewy sweetness. Here are some tips to help you pick the best components.

• Salmon Filets: Fresh, wild-caught is ideal for best flavor and texture.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for richer flavor, perfect for marinades and sautéing.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy depth that complements the lemon.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is key—bottled just can’t compare here.
• Smoked Paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth; don’t swap it out!
• Garlic Powder & Minced Garlic: Double garlic punch boosts flavor beautifully in different stages.
• Raw Jumbo Shrimp: Peeled and deveined for easy cooking and eating.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: Adds a punch of umami and texture — drain but keep a little oil for cooking.
• Orzo Pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up creamy sauce perfectly.
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base: Concentrated flavor that’s easier than broth, but broth works if you prefer.
• Herbs De Provence: A fragrant mix that subtly elevates the dish without overpowering.
• Heavy Cream & Parmesan Cheese: Creaminess and savory depth that make this recipe truly indulgent.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds vibrant color and fresh herbaceous notes at the end.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on the season or the mood—don’t hesitate to tweak the proteins or veggies. It’s flexible enough to suit what you have on hand and your personal taste preferences.

• Protein Swap: I’ve often switched out shrimp and salmon for grilled chicken when I want a milder flavor or have picky eaters at the table.
• Gluten-Free: Using quinoa instead of orzo keeps it gluten-free and adds a nice nutty texture.
• Dairy-Free: Coconut cream replaces heavy cream well, and nutritional yeast gives cheesy flavor without dairy, which I’ve done several times with great results.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach or asparagus for extra color and nutrients, making it feel even fresher and more vibrant.

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

Step 1: Marinate Your Salmon for Maximum Flavor

Start by mixing olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour this marinade over your salmon fillets and let them rest for about 15 minutes to soak up those vibrant flavors. I discovered that patience here makes all the difference — letting the salmon sit really intensifies the taste and helps it stay tender when cooked.

Step 2: Season Your Shrimp Simply but Effectively

While the salmon marinates, coat the peeled shrimp with olive oil and season with lemon pepper and smoked paprika. Set aside for a few minutes so the spices get a chance to stick. This quick seasoning trick adds a burst of flavor that balanced perfectly with the creamy orzo later on.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon Until Crispy and Golden

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. When the pan is hot, add the salmon and cook for roughly 4 minutes per side, until you get that gorgeous golden crust. The key here is not to overcrowd the pan — cooking in batches if necessary ensures even browning. Once done, remove the salmon and set it aside; don’t worry, it keeps cooking gently with the residual heat.

Step 4: Build Flavor with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Garlic

In the same skillet, toss in the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for a couple of minutes to release their oil and flavor. Then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about one minute until you can just smell that sweet garlicky aroma. This little foundation adds depth and richness to the orzo base you’re about to make.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo Until Tender and Flavorful

Now stir in your orzo pasta, then add the Better Than Bouillon roasted chicken base mixed with water (or use chicken broth if you prefer). Season with herbs de Provence and bring everything up to a boil. Once boiling, cover and lower the heat to a simmer—cook for about 10 minutes or until the orzo soaks up the liquid and becomes tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking, and make sure your heat is gentle to avoid burning.

Step 6: Finish the Orzo with Cream, Cheese, and Lemon

Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, stir in butter, heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix everything until the sauce is creamy and beautifully coats the pasta. This is the part where the dish gets silky and decadent, and the lemon juice adds just the right amount of brightness to cut through the richness.

Step 7: Cook the Shrimp to Juicy Perfection

In a separate skillet, melt a bit of butter and cook the shrimp for about 4-5 minutes, flipping once. The goal is to get them pink and firm but not rubbery—shrimp cook fast, so keep a close eye here. Once done, remove immediately to avoid overcooking.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

Plate your creamy lemon garlic orzo first, then place the salmon fillets on top. Crown with the cooked shrimp and garnish with extra chopped parsley for a pop of freshness and color. I love how this layered look makes each bite feel special, mixing creaminess, tender salmon, and juicy shrimp all at once.

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

Garnishes

I find that a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brightens up the creaminess and adds a fresh pop of color. Occasionally, I like to add a few lemon zest curls on top for an extra citrus flourish that makes the dish smell incredible right before serving.

Side Dishes

My family goes crazy for this paired with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or roasted asparagus on the side. Steamed or roasted broccoli also makes a great companion, offering a crunch and color contrast that balances the creaminess beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I’ve plated this in shallow bowls with edible flowers and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top to add a gourmet touch. Serving with lemon wedges on the side lets guests add more citrus zing if they like, making the dish interactive and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. The orzo tends to thicken overnight, so I add a splash of water or a bit more cream when reheating to bring back that luscious texture. Seafood is best eaten within 1-2 days to enjoy the freshness.

Freezing

I generally avoid freezing the Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe because the cream sauce and seafood texture don’t thaw well, often becoming watery or rubbery. If you must, freeze the orzo separately without cream and the shrimp and salmon individually—it freezes better.

Reheating

For reheating, I prefer warming it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a touch of cream or broth to keep it from drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible as it can cook unevenly and toughen the salmon and shrimp.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Salmon and Shrimp Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes when I want something that feels both comforting and a bit fancy without fussing for hours. It’s a great way to elevate dinner but still relax and enjoy the process. I hope you’ll give it a try — trust me, once you taste the silky orzo paired with tender salmon and juicy shrimp, you’ll be hooked just like my family is!

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