This Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a tasty meal that comes together in just one pan! The salmon is flaky and rich, paired perfectly with zesty lemon orzo that adds a nice twist.
I love how quick this dish is! Just sear the salmon, cook the orzo, and you’ve got a delicious dinner without a mountain of dishes to wash later. Talk about a win-win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, try using canned salmon. For a lighter choice, you could use chicken breast instead, though the cooking time will vary.
Orzo: This pasta shape is perfect because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavor well. If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta like couscous or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts nicely into the dish. You can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer, but just chop them a bit smaller as they take longer to cook down.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth enhances the flavor of the orzo. If you want to lighten this dish even more, you could use water mixed with some seasoning instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a delicious creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Get My Salmon Just Right?
Searing salmon can be tricky, but there’s a simple way to get it perfect! Start with a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd it. Here’s how:
- Make sure the salmon fillets are dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a good sear!
- Heat the oil until it’s shimmering, then gently place the salmon in the pan. Don’t move it around – let it sear!
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. If it resists when trying to flip, give it another minute to develop a good crust.
By following these tips, your salmon will be tender and flaky, just how it should be!
Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 25-30 minutes total to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to impress guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by generously seasoning the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor and help achieve a nice crust while cooking.
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned salmon fillets. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring it around to coat it well with the oil, onion, and garlic mixture. This adds flavor to the pasta.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the lemon zest and juice. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook, uncovered, for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid and is tender.
6. Stir in the Spinach:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh baby spinach until it wilts down. This only takes a minute or two!
7. Return the Salmon:
Gently return the salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, just enough to heat them through without overcooking.
8. Finish with Cheese and Serve:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and toss everything gently to combine. If you like a little heat, feel free to sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. Serve warm, garnished with extra lemon wedges if you like.
Enjoy your delicious Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo and feel proud of this nourishing meal made in no time!
FAQ – Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw salmon overnight in the refrigerator or quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What if I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No problem! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you use to ensure it cooks properly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just be sure to sauté them along with the onions and garlic so they cook through before adding the orzo.
