Description
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and delicious one-pan dinner featuring perfectly seared salmon, creamy orzo, fresh spinach, and a zesty lemon twist. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp sweet paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For the Lemon Orzo:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the salmon, skin-side up, for 3-4 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Orzo:
- In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in orzo and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until the orzo is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Combine and Finish:
- Stir in spinach, Parmesan, thyme, and lemon juice. Mix until the spinach wilts and the ingredients are well combined.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Nestle the salmon back into the skillet and warm through for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Plate the orzo and salmon, garnishing with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Notes
- Ensure salmon is dry before seasoning for a better sear.
- Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep the orzo creamy.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley for an extra burst of fl
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan Meal
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
