One of the main types of summer cooking I enjoy is taking a comfort dish and adding a summer lighter twist to it. Orzo is a comforting meal that pairs perfectly with the light flavors of pea and mint. Topped with heavily seasoned salmon, this dish offers both summer freshness and the comfort of a warm hug.

Servings: 2

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 250g Orzo
• 1 Onion
• 2 Garlic Cloves
• 500ml Vegetable Stock
• 200g Frozen Peas
• 4ish Sprigs of Mint
• 50g ish of Parmesan
• 2 Salmon Fillets
• Olive Oil
• Salt and Pepper

Instructions:

1. Dice the onion and crush the garlic.
2. Heat a glug of oil in a deep pan. Add onions and sauté until soft, around 5 minutes. Add the garlic and stir.
3. Add the orzo and about 400ml of the vegetable stock. Simmer on medium heat for ~10 minutes. If the mixture starts to dry, add a bit of water.
4. In the meantime, defrost the frozen peas with the remaining 100ml of stock. Combine the peas, mint, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Process until a chunky green paste forms.
5. Once the orzo has simmered for about 10 minutes, stir in the pea and mint mixture. Reduce heat to low and add a generous amount of grated parmesan. Continue cooking until the orzo is al dente and the mixture is hot, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. In a frying pan, heat some olive oil on medium-high heat. Generously season the salmon with salt and pepper.
7. Place the salmon skin side down and sear for about 5 minutes. Turn to sear the other sides briefly, then return to skin side down for an additional minute or until done to your preference.
8. To serve, divide the orzo between two plates. Top with salmon and an extra sprinkle of parmesan.

Serving Note: Enjoy with an ice-cold glass of Italian Pecorino wine listening to Vance Joy's "Missing Piece (Acoustic)" for a complete experience.