Harissa Salmon and Orzo with Tahini

For the Harissa Salmon

• 3 tbsp harissa paste
• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tbsp lime juice (plus zest from one lime)
• 1 1/4 lb salmon (centre cut, skin removed)
• kosher salt
• 3/4 lb asparagus, trimmed and sliced into approx. 1 1/2" pieces
• 1 lime, sliced thin
• 1 1/4 cups orzo (dry)

For the Tahini dressing:

• 2 tbsps extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsps tahini (drippy kind)
• 1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
• 1-3 tbsps water, as needed to thin
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

For Garnish:

• fresh dill, chopped
• fresh mint, chopped

‍For the Harissa Salmon

1. In a small bowl, combine the harissa paste, avocado oil, lime juice and zest and mix well.
2. Place the salmon in a large baking dish and season with a good pinch of salt. Brush about half of the harissa mixture on the salmon, letting excess drip off into the baking dish.
3. Toss the asparagus with a drizzle more avocado oil and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to the baking dish and scatter around the salmon. Top with lime slices.
4. Broil on high for five minutes. Remove and brush the remaining harissa on top of the salmon. Place back in the oven and broil for another four to six minutes, until the salmon is cooked through to your preference. If the asparagus isn't tender enough, remove the salmon and broil the asparagus for another one to two minutes.
5. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook for eight to nine minutes. Drain and set aside.
6. Just before serving, break the salmon into irregular pieces with a fork, it should flake right apart.

For the Tahini dressing:

1. In a small jar or bowl, combine all ingredients, starting with 1 tbsp water and adding more as needed to thin. Shake the jar well to combine.

To assemble:

1. Mix about half of the tahini dressing into the orzo and toss to combine.
2. Transfer the orzo to a large serving dish.
3. Scatter the salmon pieces and asparagus over the orzo. Garnish with dill and mint and season to taste with flaky salt.
4. When ready to serve, drizzle more tahini over top of everything. Enjoy!