### Crispy Salmon with Mushroom Orzo and Red Wine Sauce: A Flavorful Meal
#### Introduction
Looking to elevate your dinner table? Try this delicious and elegant recipe for crispy salmon with mushroom orzo and red wine sauce! This dish combines the richness of salmon, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the creamy complexity of a red wine sauce. Perfect for special occasions or as a weeknight treat.
#### Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup arborio or carnaroli rice (orzo)
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
#### Instructions
1. **Prep the Salmon**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season both sides of each salmon fillet with salt and pepper.
- Place a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet. Arrange salmon fillets skin-side down on top, then brush lightly with olive oil.
2. **Cook the Orzo**
- In a large pan over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, about 7-8 minutes.
- In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the orzo and sauté for 3-4 minutes until lightly toasted.
3. **Prepare the Sauce**
- In another large pot, bring chicken stock to a simmer.
- Add the sautéed vegetables from step 2 into the stock, stirring well.
- Pour in white wine and let it cook down slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the sauce has thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
4. **Bake the Salmon**
- Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is just cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. **Combine and Serve**
- Divide the orzo among four plates, then top each portion with a salmon fillet.
- Drizzle the red wine sauce over the orzo and salmon to serve.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
#### Tips
- Ensure your salmon is fresh; this will make all the difference in its texture and taste.
- For an extra crispy skin, you can lightly dust both sides of the fillets with cornmeal before baking.
This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 50 minutes to prepare. Enjoy your meal!