One skillet lemon orzo with perfectly cooked salmon on a plate

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

ByNaya Lucas
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Why make this recipe

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful meal that will impress your family and friends. It’s quick and easy to make, using just one skillet. This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the zesty taste of lemon and the satisfying texture of orzo. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

How to make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Ingredients:

  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • Juice from ½ lemon
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
  • Chili flakes (for serving)

Directions:

  1. Get your prep done before you start cooking: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil and butter over medium-high in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Add salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and onion. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme and the remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. To maintain a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking, until almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
  5. Add spinach, stir, and simmer until wilted for about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Add more broth, if needed. Taste and adjust salt.
  6. Return the salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through.
  7. Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes. Enjoy!

How to serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serve this dish on plates or in bowls right from the skillet for a casual dining experience. You can garnish it with more freshly ground black pepper and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat. Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal.

How to store One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Tips to make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

  • Make sure to pat your salmon dry to get a nice sear.
  • Adjust the seasoning based on your preference. You can add more garlic or herbs if you like.
  • If you like a tangier flavor, use more lemon juice or add lemon zest before serving.

Variation

You can use other types of fish, such as tilapia or cod, in place of salmon. If you want a vegetarian option, omit the salmon and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo?
Yes, you can use whole wheat orzo for a healthier option, but cooking times may vary slightly.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta.

3. Can I prepare this in advance?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Do not cook the salmon until you’re ready to serve.

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

A delightful and nutritious dish combining salmon, lemon, and orzo, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the salmon
  • 4 fillets skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
For the orzo
  • 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • ½ lemon Juice from ½ lemon
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
For serving
  • Freshly ground black pepper for serving
  • Chili flakes for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Get your prep done before you start cooking: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon salt and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Heat oil and butter over medium-high in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Add salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and onion. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes.
  3. Stir in thyme and the remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. To maintain a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking, until almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
  5. Add spinach, stir, and simmer until wilted for about 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Add more broth, if needed. Taste and adjust salt.
  7. Return the salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through.
  8. Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes. Enjoy!

Notes

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry. Make sure to pat your salmon dry to get a nice sear. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference. You can add more garlic or herbs if you like. If you like a tangier flavor, use more lemon juice or add lemon zest before serving. You can use other types of fish, such as tilapia or cod, instead of salmon. For a vegetarian option, omit the salmon and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

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