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One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

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4.2 from 13 reviews

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender salmon fillets are seared to perfection and nestled on a bed of garlicky orzo pasta infused with fresh spinach, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. All cooked in a single pan, this recipe marries convenience with vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1/2 tsp salt (for seasoning salmon)
  • 1/2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (for seasoning salmon)
  • 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 cheese

For Serving

  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepping: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half of the salt and pepper.
  2. Searing: Heat olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add the seasoned salmon fillets and sear them for 3 to 4 minutes per side until nicely browned. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sautéing: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in dried thyme along with the remaining salt and pepper. Add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1 minute while stirring.
  4. Cooking the Orzo: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is almost al dente and most of the broth is absorbed, approximately 8 minutes.
  5. Simmering with Spinach and Flavor: Add the baby spinach to the skillet and stir. Simmer until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. Add additional broth if needed to reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
  6. Finishing: Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet. Simmer everything together gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the salmon is heated through and flavors meld.
  7. Serving: Top the dish with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful one-pan meal!

Notes

  • Patting the salmon dry before seasoning helps achieve a better sear and crust.
  • Use low sodium chicken broth to better control salt levels in the dish.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the salmon.
  • For a dairy-free version, skip the butter and Parmesan cheese, or use dairy-free alternatives.
  • Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.

Find it online: https://cozyplatter.com/one-skillet-salmon-with-lemon-orzo-recipe/