One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Why Make This Recipe

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. This recipe combines the healthy goodness of salmon with the zestiness of lemon and the heartiness of orzo pasta, all cooked in one skillet. It’s not just delicious but also quick to prepare, making clean-up a breeze.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Directions

1. Season the salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the salmon and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the orzo and stir to coat in the butter and garlic. Pour in the broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and creamy.
5. Stir in the baby spinach until wilted, then mix in Parmesan cheese if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, placing them over the lemon orzo. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, zesty, and wholesome dish!

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serve this dish warm right from the skillet. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and some lemon slices on top will make it look even more appealing. This meal pairs well with a side salad or 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 for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Make sure not to overcook the salmon; it should flake easily with a fork when done.
• Use fresh herbs for added flavor if you have them on hand.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your preference for tanginess.

Variation

You can replace the salmon with chicken breasts or shrimp if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the protein is cooked through.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo?
Yes, you can swap in whole wheat orzo for a healthier option. Just be mindful that it may take a bit longer to cook.

What can I use instead of broth?
Water can be used in place of broth, but using broth adds more flavor to the dish.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just keep the salmon and orzo in separate containers to maintain freshness.

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Pescatarian

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Description

A quick and delicious one-skillet dish combining salmon, lemon, and orzo pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Season the salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the salmon and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the orzo and stir to coat in the butter and garlic. Pour in the broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and creamy.
5. Stir in the baby spinach until wilted, then mix in Parmesan cheese if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, placing them over the lemon orzo. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg