Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Category: Dinner Ideas

This one skillet salmon dish is a breeze to cook! Juicy salmon pairs perfectly with zesty lemon orzo that’s bursting with flavor. It’s as hearty as it is refreshing!

I love that everything cooks together, making cleanup a snap. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a meal that tastes gourmet but is actually super easy? 🍋🐟

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key for flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with skinless trout or chicken breast for a different taste.

Orzo: This pasta adds heartiness. If you don’t have orzo, feel free to use other small pastas like rice-shaped pasta or even quinoa for a gluten-free option!

Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness. If you don’t have lemons, try using lime juice instead, or even a splash of vinegar for acidity.

Spinach: Fresh spinach gives this dish a nutritious boost. Swap it with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer, or use frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand.

How Do I Keep My Salmon from Overcooking?

Cooking salmon just right can be a challenge, but here’s how to master it:

  • Start by patting the salmon dry with a paper towel to get a nice crust.
  • Cook on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side—until it’s golden brown.
  • Check for doneness: it should flake easily with a fork yet remain slightly translucent in the center.

Removing it from the heat promptly helps prevent overcooking, and don’t worry if it seems slightly underdone at first; it will continue cooking off the heat!

Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and delightful meal perfect for any night of the week!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Salmon:

Begin by generously seasoning your salmon fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will help develop a yummy flavor as they cook.

2. Cook the Salmon:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned salmon fillets. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden and just cooked through. When done, carefully remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

4. Toast the Orzo:

Now, stir in the orzo pasta. Toast it for about 1 minute, mixing it with the onions and garlic so that it gets a nice flavor boost.

5. Add Broth and Seasoning:

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the lemon zest and juice. Season with more salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

6. Add Spinach and Butter:

Fold the fresh spinach leaves and the butter into the orzo mixture, stirring until the spinach wilts and the butter melts, giving your dish a creamy texture.

7. Return the Salmon:

Carefully nestle the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet over the lemon orzo. Cover the skillet and let everything heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.

8. Serve and Garnish:

Before serving, sprinkle the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy this flavorful and comforting meal!

Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

FAQs about Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.

Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the orzo and cook the salmon in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the orzo gently on the stove or in the microwave, and reheat the salmon until just warmed through.

What Can I Substitute for Orzo?

If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta or grain you choose!

How do I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if it needs some moisture back.

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