One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

why make this recipe

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together the goodness of salmon and the comfort of orzo pasta. It’s simple to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. With only one skillet to clean, you can enjoy a tasty meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. The fresh flavors of lemon and spinach brighten up the dish, making it not just delicious but also colorful and appealing.

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 on each 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, stirring occasionally to prevent 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 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

This dish is best served hot right from the skillet. Place a salmon fillet on each plate and spoon the lemon orzo with spinach around it. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick. Pair this meal with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.

how to store One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little bit of water or broth to keep the orzo moist while reheating.

tips to make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Make sure to pat the salmon fillets dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a nice sear.
• Stir the orzo frequently while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Use fresh herbs if available for even more flavor.

variation

You can swap out salmon for other fish like tilapia or cod if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, you can use chickpeas instead of salmon and add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare and store the orzo separately and add the salmon before serving to keep it fresh.

What can I serve with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.