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Seared Alaska Salmon over Creamy Dill Risotto

white bowl filled with risotto rice topped with a piece of salmon
Creamy dill risotto paired with pan-seared Alaska wild salmon. A simple, restaurant-style meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 2 servings
  • Yield: 2 salmon fillets with ~2 cups risotto

Ingredients

  • For the risotto:

  • 2/3 cup Arborio (risotto) rice
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cups vegetable stock
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or canola (rapeseed) oil
  • 1 1/2 tsp butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1–2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the salmon:

  • 2 Alaska wild salmon fillets
  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For serving (optional):

  • Lemon wedges

Preparation

  1. Step 1 Start the risotto

    Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
    Stir in the rice and cook for 2–3 minutes, coating it in the oil.

  2. Step 2 Cook the rice

    Add the vegetable stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

  3. Step 3 Finish the risotto

    Stir in butter, Parmesan, dill, and cream. Cook for another 3–5 minutes until rich and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  4. Step 4 Cook the salmon

    While the risotto finishes, pat the salmon dry and season with salt and pepper.
    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook salmon for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and just cooked through.

  5. Step 5 Serve

    Spoon risotto onto plates and top with salmon. Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

     

    Tips:

    • Warm your stock before adding to help the risotto cook evenly.
    • Fresh dill is key for flavor—dried won’t give the same result.
    • Salmon is done when it flakes easily and is opaque in the center.