One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

A delicious and satisfying meal, One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe combines pan-seared salmon and zesty orzo cooked with fresh spinach and Parmesan for an all-in-one dish that everyone will enjoy. Simple to make yet full of flavor, this meal is sure to impress your family or guests without the stress of multiple dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic evenings.
• One Pan Wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans—everything cooks together in one skillet.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs brings a bright and savory taste to the salmon and orzo.
• Healthy Meal: Packed with protein from the salmon and nutrients from the spinach, this dish is both filling and nutritious.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, fancy gatherings, or meal prep throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking this dish a breeze. Gather these essentials before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Prevents the salmon from sticking while providing even heat for cooking.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping onions, garlic, and preparing other ingredients quickly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 tsp salt (divided)
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For Cooking

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Orzo

• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth

For Spinach & Flavoring

• 5 ounces baby spinach
• juice from ½ lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

For Garnish

• Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• Chili flakes (for serving)

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Get your prep done before you start cooking:
1. Grate the Parmesan cheese.
2. Finely chop the onion.
3. Mince the garlic cloves.
4. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
5. Season both sides of the salmon with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

In a large nonstick pan or skillet:
1. Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add salmon fillets to the skillet.
3. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
4. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Onion and Garlic

Lower the heat to medium:
1. Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet.
2. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Stir in thyme along with remaining salt and pepper.
4. Add orzo pasta to toast for 1 minute.

Step 4: Add Broth & Simmer

Pour in chicken broth:
1. Bring mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer.
3. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally until orzo is almost al dente, about 8 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach & Lemon

Add ingredients:
1. Stir in baby spinach until wilted, about 2 minutes.
2. Mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Adjust seasoning by adding more broth if needed.

Step 6: Return Salmon & Heat Through

Return seared salmon to the skillet:
1. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving:
1. Enjoy your flavorful One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo!

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serving One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is simple and delightful. This dish can be customized to suit various tastes, ensuring everyone at your table enjoys it.

For a Fresh Salad

• Arugula Salad: Toss fresh arugula with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a light vinaigrette for a crisp contrast.
• Cucumber and Feta Salad: Combine diced cucumber, feta cheese, and olives for a refreshing Mediterranean twist.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasoned Zucchini: Roast zucchini in olive oil and herbs until tender for a flavorful side.
• Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: Sauté Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious lemon orzo sauce.
• Focaccia: Offer slices of herb-infused focaccia for a delightful addition to the meal.

For Extra Flavor

• Tartar Sauce: A dollop of tartar sauce adds creaminess that complements the salmon perfectly.
• Lemon Wedges: Fresh lemon wedges will enhance the citrus flavor of the dish when squeezed over the top before serving.

How to Perfect One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Perfecting One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is all about balancing flavors and textures. Follow these tips for an even better dish.

• Bold Seasoning: Season your salmon generously with salt, pepper, and spices to enhance its natural flavors.
• Perfectly Cooked Orzo: Stir frequently while cooking orzo to prevent it from sticking together and ensure even cooking.
• Fresh Spinach Addition: Add fresh spinach at the end of cooking to keep its vibrant color and nutrients intact.
• Lemon Zest Boost: Incorporate lemon zest along with juice for an extra layer of citrus flavor that brightens the dish.
• Quality Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and richer flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process by tasting, ensuring you get the balance just right.

Best Side Dishes for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Pairing sides with your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo can elevate your meal. Here are some suggestions that complement this delicious dish well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender for a crunchy side dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables adds protein and texture while remaining light.
5. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta pairs beautifully with salmon.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn offers a nice contrast in sweetness against the savory salmon flavors.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that balance out the richness of the dish.
8. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens dressed lightly can refresh your palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking salmon too long can make it dry. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side, then check for doneness.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Skipping seasoning or using too little can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season the salmon and orzo well before cooking.
• Using Regular Broth: Using regular chicken broth can overpower the dish. Opt for low sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.
• Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Overlooking the orzo’s cooking time can result in mushy pasta. Stir occasionally and cook until just al dente.
• Forgetting to Prep Ingredients: Not prepping ingredients beforehand can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Take time to chop and measure everything before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in an oven-safe container covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a splash of broth if needed. Stir gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a simple, all-in-one meal featuring pan-seared salmon and lemony orzo pasta cooked together with spinach and Parmesan cheese.

Can I customize the recipe?

Yes! You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or substituting quinoa for orzo to meet dietary preferences.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked. For best results, use a food thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even searing.

What goes well with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables, enhancing its flavors while keeping it light.

Final Thoughts

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is not only quick and easy but also offers delightful flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your tastes or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try for your next busy night dinner—you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This all-in-one dish features succulent pan-seared salmon paired with zesty lemon orzo, fresh spinach, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it brings together bright flavors of garlic and herbs that will impress your family or guests without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Enjoy this quick, healthy, and versatile recipe that can easily be customized to suit your tastes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• Juice from ½ lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare ingredients: Grate Parmesan, chop onion, mince garlic, pat salmon dry, and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown; set aside.
3. Lower heat to medium; sauté onion and garlic until soft (about 2 minutes). Add thyme, remaining salt and pepper, then toast orzo for 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 8 minutes until orzo is nearly al dente.
5. Stir in spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes), add lemon juice and Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Return salmon to skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve topped with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 75mg