One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

A delicious One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights. This recipe combines pan-seared salmon with creamy, lemony orzo, all cooked in one skillet for minimal cleanup. With nutritious spinach and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavors that everyone will love. It’s an ideal meal for family dinners or entertaining guests, making life easier while still impressing your loved ones.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• One Skillet Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means less mess and fewer dishes to wash.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan creates a delightful flavor profile that elevates the salmon and orzo.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from the salmon and vitamins from the spinach, this dish is a healthy choice for any dinner.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a light salad for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will help you create this flavorful meal without any hitches.

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Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Grater (for Parmesan)
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Ensures even cooking and helps prevent the salmon from sticking, resulting in perfectly seared fish.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and mincing garlic quick and easy, saving you time in prep work.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 tsp salt (divided)
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Orzo

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 1 tsp dried thyme

For Cooking

• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• Juice from ½ lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

For Serving

• Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• Chili flakes (for serving)

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Get your prep done before you start cooking:
   1. Grate the Parmesan cheese.
   2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
   3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
   4. Season both sides of the salmon with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half a teaspoon each of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

1. Heat olive oil and butter over medium high heat in a large nonstick skillet.
2. Add the seasoned salmon fillets to the skillet.
3. Sear each fillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

1. Reduce heat to medium.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet.
3. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme along with remaining salt and pepper.

Step 4: Toast Orzo

1. Add dry orzo to the skillet; toast for about 1 minute while stirring frequently.

Step 5: Add Broth

1. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer.
3. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until orzo is almost al dente and most liquid is absorbed (about 8 minutes).

Step 6: Incorporate Spinach

1. Add baby spinach to the skillet; stir until wilted (approximately 2 minutes).
2. Mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan; add more broth if needed based on consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Finish With Salmon

1. Return cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet.
2. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
3. Top with freshly ground black pepper and sprinkle chili flakes before serving.

Enjoy your delightful One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serving One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo can turn a simple meal into a delightful experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar complements the richness of salmon with its creamy dressing.

Add a Zesty Sauce

• Lemon Dill Sauce: A tangy lemon dill sauce enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Garlic Aioli: This creamy dip provides a rich contrast to the lemony orzo.

Garnish Smartly

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or dill over the top for added color and flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Enhance with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Pita Chips: Serve pita chips for a crunchy texture that pairs well with the dish.

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How to Perfect One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

To achieve perfection in your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, consider these helpful tips.

• seasoning: Ensure you season your salmon well before cooking to enhance its flavor.
• Control the heat: Cook the salmon on medium-high heat for a perfect sear while keeping it moist inside.
• Cook orzo properly: Stir occasionally while cooking orzo to prevent it from sticking together.
• Add broth gradually: Pour in broth slowly to control how much liquid is absorbed by the orzo.
• Incorporate veggies wisely: Add spinach towards the end of cooking to keep its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Taste as you go: Always taste your dish as you cook; adjust seasoning as necessary for balance.

Best Side Dishes for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that pair well with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds crunch and freshness to your plate.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts provide a savory contrast to the dish’s flavors.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring quinoa, cucumber, and herbs offers great texture.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection bring out their natural sweetness.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can balance out the richness of salmon wonderfully.
6. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables makes for a light and refreshing side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure a delicious meal. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not prepping ingredients: Failing to chop your vegetables or measure your ingredients ahead of time can lead to chaos while cooking. Always prepare your ingredients before you start.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking the salmon for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s opaque and flakes easily.
• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to season the orzo properly can result in bland flavors. Use salt and pepper generously throughout the cooking process for a well-seasoned dish.
• Ignoring the broth temperature: Adding cold broth to the pan can shock the cooking process and alter texture. Always use warm or hot broth for a seamless cook.
• Not stirring frequently: Forgetting to stir the orzo while it cooks may cause it to stick to the pan. Stir occasionally to keep everything moving and prevent sticking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if necessary, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo:

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just ensure they are fully thawed before seasoning and cooking.

What can I substitute for orzo?

If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta types like couscous or quinoa.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo pasta made from rice or corn.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like such as bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with this dish?

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is not just easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. This dish brings together delightful flavors that everyone will enjoy. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try today!

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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• Author: Grace
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, a dish that seamlessly combines pan-seared salmon with creamy, lemon-infused orzo. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot meal is not only quick to prepare but also minimizes cleanup. With nutritious spinach and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, each bite bursts with flavor, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. Elevate your culinary experience while keeping it simple and satisfying.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 5 oz baby spinach
• Juice from ½ lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. Season the salmon fillets with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown; then remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook chopped onion and minced garlic until soft. Stir in thyme and add dry orzo; toast for about a minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered until orzo is nearly al dente (about 8 minutes).
5. Add spinach; stir until wilted. Mix in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
6. Return salmon to the skillet for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 690mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 75mg