This One Skillet Salmon with Easy Lemon Orzo brings happiness to your dinner table! The juicy salmon pairs perfectly with zesty lemon orzo, making a tasty combo.
Seriously, who doesn’t love a meal that’s quick and has only one pan to clean? I whip this up when I’m short on time and still want to impress! ✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If you can’t find salmon, try trout or even chicken breast. Both can be easily adjusted in cooking time.
Orzo: This pasta adds great texture. If you’re gluten-free, consider using quinoa or rice for a similar effect. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth enhances the flavor without being overpowering. Vegetable broth is a great plant-based alternative that keeps it light.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten up the dish. Lime can work in a pinch, but I love the lemony twist it brings!
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds color and nutrition. If it’s not available, kale or even frozen spinach can substitute, but make sure to thaw and drain well.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Sear on Salmon?
Searing salmon is crucial for locking in flavor and achieving a crispy exterior. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a hot skillet to create that nice sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Pat the fillets dry completely; moisture means less crispiness.
- After placing them in the pan, let them cook undisturbed for several minutes. This helps achieve that golden crust!
- Be cautious while flipping! Use a sturdy spatula to avoid breaking the fillets.
With these tips, you’ll be a pro at searing salmon in no time!
One Skillet Salmon with Easy Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Orzo:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
For the Add-ins:
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking everything in one skillet. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then generously season both sides with salt and pepper. This helps to enhance the flavor of the fish.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown, but not fully cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Orzo:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the orzo pasta, stirring it in the oil and garlic to coat evenly.
4. Add Broth and Lemon:
Pour in the chicken broth along with the lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. This mixture will add lots of delicious flavor to your dish!
5. Simmer the Orzo and Salmon:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Carefully nestle the seared salmon fillets on top of the orzo. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the salmon is fully cooked through. Remember to check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t overcook!
6. Add Spinach and Butter:
Remove the lid and toss in the fresh baby spinach and butter. Stir gently to mix, allowing the spinach to wilt for about 1-2 minutes. If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this stage.
7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
Give the orzo a taste, and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and, if you like, some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch!
8. Serve:
Dish out the salmon over the creamy lemon orzo and enjoy this delicious, nutritious one skillet meal. Perfect for any night of the week!
This recipe beautifully combines the rich flavors of pan-seared salmon with the brightness of lemony orzo and fresh spinach, all in one convenient skillet for easy preparation and cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Salmon with Another Fish?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different fish, trout or sea bass are great alternatives. Just note that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillet.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No worries! You can substitute orzo with rice or quinoa. If using rice, adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid required according to the rice variety you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the components ahead of time! Store the uncooked salmon and orzo separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, follow the instructions for a fresh meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet or microwavable dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
