One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful dish that combines the richness of pan-seared salmon with the bright, zesty flavors of lemony orzo. This one-pot meal is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of salmon, lemon, and Parmesan creates an irresistible taste that will please everyone at your table.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means less mess and hassle during preparation and cleanup.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from salmon and nutrients from spinach, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Helps prevent sticking, ensuring your salmon cooks evenly without falling apart.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for seasonings, which are crucial for achieving the best flavor.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.

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Ingredients

A fuss-free meal with pan-seared salmon and lemony orzo cooked together with spinach and Parmesan for a quick and easy dinner. A winner for busy nights— this all-in-one dish is sure to be loved by everyone at your table!

For the Salmon

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

For the Orzo and Vegetables

• 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
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• juice from ½ lemon

For Serving

• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• chili flakes (for serving)

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Get your prep done before you start cooking: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Heat oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick pan or skillet.
* Add salmon fillets to the pan.
* Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
* Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and onion to the skillet.
* Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes.
* Stir in thyme, remaining salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Add dry orzo pasta to the skillet.
* Toast for about 1 minute while stirring frequently.

Step 5: Add Broth

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
* Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer.
* Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally until almost al dente, about 8 minutes.

Step 6: Incorporate Spinach

Add baby spinach to the skillet.
* Stir until wilted, which takes about 2 minutes.

Step 7: Finish the Dish

Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
* If needed, add more broth to reach desired consistency.
* Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 8: Return Salmon

Return the seared salmon back into the skillet.
Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 9: Serve

Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serving One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is simple and enjoyable. This dish not only looks vibrant but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that can be complemented by various sides and garnishes.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the freshness of the dish. Simply sprinkle them on top right before serving for a burst of flavor.

Citrus Zest

• Lemon zest adds an extra citrus kick. Grate some lemon peel over the salmon just before serving to amplify the lemony notes in the orzo.

Toasted Nuts

• Pine nuts or almonds, lightly toasted, provide a crunchy texture. Sprinkle them over the dish for added richness and contrast.

Side Salad

• A simple green salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly. It adds freshness and balances out the richness of the salmon.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. A slice of baguette or sourdough works well here.

Additional Cheese

• Extra grated Parmesan can be served on the side for those who love cheese. It adds creaminess when sprinkled over individual servings.

How to Perfect One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

To achieve the best results with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh salmon and vibrant vegetables will enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Watch cooking times: Ensure you don’t overcook the salmon; it should be tender and flaky.
• Stir frequently: While cooking orzo, frequent stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Adjust liquid as needed: If the orzo absorbs too much broth, add a bit more to reach your desired consistency.
• Season gradually: Taste as you go to find the perfect balance of salt and lemon in your dish.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to rest after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Pairing side dishes with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli – Tender broccoli tossed in garlic and olive oil provides a delicious crunch and vibrant color.
2. Lemon Garlic Asparagus – Lightly sautéed asparagus with lemon juice complements the lemony flavors of the main dish.
3. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad – This refreshing salad filled with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives adds a healthy touch.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy offer a sweet contrast to savory salmon.
5. Creamy Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and creaminess, balancing out the richness of the salmon.
6. Grilled Zucchini – Simple grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil enhances your plate’s freshness while being quick to prepare.
7. Spinach Salad – A light spinach salad dressed in vinaigrette can add brightness without overpowering other flavors.
8. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes for a wonderful side that soaks up flavors nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of when preparing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo.

• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season the salmon fillets can lead to bland flavors. Always season your fish before cooking to enhance its taste.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking salmon for too long can make it dry and tough. Aim for a cooking time of 3-4 minutes per side for perfect results.
• Not preparing ingredients in advance: Failing to chop onions or mince garlic beforehand can slow down your cooking process. Prepare all ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.
• Ignoring the orzo’s cooking time: Allowing the orzo to cook without stirring can lead to sticking. Stir occasionally while it cooks to keep it from clumping together.
• Skipping taste testing: Not tasting before serving can result in an unbalanced dish. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed during cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Use freezer-safe containers for best results.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a different texture.

What can I serve alongside One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, adding more color and nutrients to your meal.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta option to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Final Thoughts

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is not just quick and easy; it’s also versatile. You can customize this dish by adding seasonal vegetables or different herbs according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a flavorful meal that brings everyone together!