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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 83 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Salt

Description

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and flavorful meal featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets served over creamy, lemony orzo pasta with spinach and Parmesan. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines simple ingredients and minimal cleanup for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt, divided
  • 1 tsp black pepper, divided
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter

Orzo and Vegetables

  • 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

For Serving

  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • chili flakes, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets evenly with garlic powder, sweet paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This seasoning adds a flavorful crust during cooking.
  2. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Cook the Orzo: Add dried thyme, remaining salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it lightly for a minute. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered until the orzo is almost tender, approximately 8 minutes.
  5. Finish the Orzo: Stir in the baby spinach, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook and stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, creating a creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Combine with Salmon: Return the seared salmon fillets back to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the salmon is heated through and flavors meld.
  7. Serve: Plate the salmon and orzo, then top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes to your preferred spice level. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the salmon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Make sure to watch the orzo closely as it cooks to avoid overcooking and sticking.
  • Fresh lemon juice added at the end brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the Parmesan and salmon.
  • If you prefer crispy skin, leave skin on the salmon fillets and adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/one-skillet-salmon-with-lemon-orzo-recipe/