Crispy @CA Walnuts-crusted salmon meets creamy lemony orzo and sweet peas for a gorgeous spring dinner that comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s cozy and comforting, but still bright and fresh… the perfect balance for this time of year.
Walnut-Crusted Salmon:
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1 cup toasted California walnuts, very finely chopped
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¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
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Kosher salt and black pepper
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2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
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Lemon wedges, for serving
Creamy Lemony Orzo & Snap Peas:
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1 small shallot, finely minced
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2–3 cloves garlic, grated
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½ cup dry white wine (optional)
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1 cup snap or frozen peas, sliced
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1 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
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¼ cup mascarpone, to taste
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2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped, plus more for garnish
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Kosher salt + black pepper
Walnut-Crusted Salmon with Lemony Orzo
Indulge in a vibrant spring dinner featuring Walnut-Crusted Salmon served alongside a delightful Lemony Orzo and Spring Peas. This dish masterfully combines the comforting richness of crispy, walnut-crusted salmon with the bright, zesty notes of creamy lemony orzo, punctuated by the sweetness of fresh peas. It’s a meal that strikes a perfect balance, offering a cozy yet fresh dining experience ideal for the season.
The recipe is designed for efficiency, coming together in approximately 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners. The primary components include two salmon fillets, a crust made from finely chopped toasted California walnuts, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper, all pan-seared in olive oil and finished with flaky salt and lemon wedges.
Accompanying the salmon is a creamy lemony orzo, prepared with olive oil, butter, minced shallots, grated garlic, and an optional dry white wine. The orzo is simmered in chicken broth until tender, then enriched with snap peas (or frozen peas), grated Parmesan, mascarpone for creaminess, lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper completes this flavorful side.
This dish is perfect for a delightful dinner for two, offering a sophisticated yet approachable meal.
