Description
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delicious and easy-to-make meal featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets served over a creamy, lemon-infused orzo with spinach and Parmesan. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a wholesome, flavorful dish that combines tender seafood with a zesty, comforting pasta all cooked in a single skillet for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 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
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
- freshly ground black pepper – for serving
- chili flakes – for serving
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: 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 of the salmon with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half of the salt and pepper.
- Sear Salmon: Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add the seasoned salmon fillets and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned but not fully cooked. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in dried thyme along with the remaining salt and pepper.
- Cook Orzo: Add the dry orzo to the skillet and toast it for 1 minute, stirring to coat it well with the aromatics. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered until the orzo is almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
- Add Spinach and Finish Orzo: Stir in the baby spinach and simmer for approximately 2 minutes until wilted. Mix in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. Add additional broth if the orzo seems dry. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Reheat Salmon: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them on top of the orzo. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to warm the salmon through without overcooking.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful one skillet salmon with lemon orzo!
Notes
- Keep an eye on the orzo during simmering to prevent it from sticking to the skillet, stirring occasionally.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash more chicken broth or a tablespoon of cream when stirring in the spinach and Parmesan.
- Use low sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be added as a garnish for an extra burst of flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the butter and Parmesan or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Ensure the salmon is skinless for even cooking and easier searing.
Keywords: salmon recipe, lemon orzo, one skillet meal, easy dinner, healthy recipe, quick salmon, stovetop salmon, Mediterranean inspired