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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the perfect weeknight meal that combines the rich flavors of pan-seared salmon with zesty lemon-infused orzo, all cooked in one pot. This delightful dish brings together tender salmon fillets and vibrant spinach, creating a nutritious and satisfying dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Ideal for busy families or casual gatherings, this recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • juice from ½ lemon
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 tsp black pepper (divided)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
  • chili flakes (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prep ingredients: Grate Parmesan, chop onion, mince garlic, and season salmon.
  2. Cook salmon: Heat oil and butter in a nonstick skillet; sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, cook garlic and onion until soft; add thyme and remaining seasonings.
  4. Toast orzo: Stir in orzo pasta for about 1 minute to toast.
  5. Add broth: Pour chicken broth and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer uncovered until orzo is almost al dente (about 8 minutes).
  6. Incorporate spinach: Add spinach and stir until wilted (about 2 minutes).
  7. Finish dish: Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan; adjust consistency with more broth if needed.
  8. Return salmon: Place salmon back into the skillet; simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  9. Serve hot with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes.

Nutrition

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