This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a breeze to make! You get tender salmon paired with zesty lemon orzo in just one pan—less mess, more flavors!
What I love most is how the bright lemon makes everything pop. Plus, you can impress your friends with just 30 minutes of cooking! Who knew dinner could be this easy? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal for flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, try using tilapia or even chicken breasts in a pinch. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta adds a nice touch. If it’s not available, you can substitute with another small pasta like ditalini or arborio rice, which will give a creamy consistency.
Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps the dish balanced, but you could use water with added herbs for a lighter option. For a vegetarian dish, stick with vegetable broth.
Spinach: Fresh spinach brings color and nutrients. Feel free to use kale or even frozen spinach, but make sure to drain any excess liquid.
Lemon: The lemon zest and juice brighten the dish. If you’re out of fresh lemons, a splash of bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always best!
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
The key to great salmon is precise timing. Start by searing the fillets until golden brown, which adds flavor. Here’s a simple guide to cook it perfectly:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season salmon with salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor.
- Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes. It should be firm but still slightly translucent in the center.
- Let it rest for a few minutes, as it will continue to cook from residual heat.
By following these steps, you’ll get tender, flaky salmon every time!
One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon and Orzo:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 small tomato, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a little time searing the salmon and cooking the orzo all in one skillet, keeping things simple and efficient!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Salmon:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, generously season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown but not fully cooked. Once finished, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Flavor Base:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 2 minutes until they are softened and aromatic. The scent will be amazing!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta into the skillet and stir it around to coat it in the oil and the onion-garlic mixture. Allow it to toast for about 1-2 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
4. Add Broth and Lemon:
Now, carefully pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the lemon zest and freshly squeezed juice from half of the lemon. Stir everything together well and bring it to a boil.
5. Cook the Orzo:
After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is fully cooked and most of the broth has been absorbed.
6. Incorporate Greens:
Add in the chopped spinach and diced tomato (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together until the spinach has wilted down, brightening up the dish with its colors.
7. Finish Cooking the Salmon:
Nestle the seared salmon fillets back on top of the orzo. Cover the skillet once more, and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices on top. Serve your beautiful One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo immediately and enjoy a delicious meal!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture, which helps in getting a nice sear.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even Arborio rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness as needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place any uneaten salmon and orzo in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms—just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly with the orzo.