One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

If you’re looking for a delightful and hassle-free dinner that will impress everyone at the table, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights or family gatherings, combining succulent salmon with zesty orzo and fresh spinach in just one pan! You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is on the palate.

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavors but also in its simplicity. With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy more time with your loved ones after dinner. Trust me; once you try this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan creates a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates the salmon and orzo.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this dish, as the flavors are mild yet satisfying.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Simple ingredients come together for a nutritious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this fantastic dish! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store.

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 tsp salt (divided)
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 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
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• Chili flakes (for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If salmon isn’t your favorite, try using chicken breasts or shrimp for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re looking for a different flavor, substitute the Parmesan with feta or goat cheese.
• Make it creamy: For an even richer dish, stir in a splash of cream before 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 to ensure they sear nicely. Season both sides of each fillet with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half a teaspoon of salt and pepper. This step ensures that every bite is full of flavor!

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Once hot, add the salmon fillets and sear them for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Removing them from the skillet now helps prevent overcooking; they’ll finish cooking later when added back into the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté until softened and fragrant—around two minutes should do! Stir in dried thyme along with the remaining salt and pepper. Toasting these spices enhances their flavors before adding other ingredients.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Next, add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for about one minute while stirring. This step adds depth of flavor to the pasta itself; it’s such an easy way to elevate your dish!

Step 5: Add Broth & Cook Orzo

Pour in low sodium chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Then reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally until most of the liquid is absorbed—this usually takes around eight minutes. The goal here is perfectly cooked orzo without sticking!

Step 6: Incorporate Spinach & Cheese

Once your orzo is almost al dente, stir in baby spinach until it’s wilted—about two minutes should be enough! Squeeze in lemon juice and mix in grated Parmesan for creaminess. If needed, adjust seasoning by tasting; feel free to add extra broth if it’s too thick.

Step 7: Final Touches

Return your beautifully seared salmon fillets back into the skillet. Allow them to simmer gently for another two to three minutes until heated through. Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving! Enjoy this delightful meal right away while it’s warm!

With these steps laid out clearly for you, I hope you feel inspired to make this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo soon! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo to perfection!

• Prep Ahead: Preparing your ingredients beforehand saves time and ensures a smoother cooking process. When everything is ready to go, you can focus on enjoying the cooking experience.

• Sear for Flavor: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon. A good sear locks in moisture and creates a delicious crust, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

• Stir Occasionally: While cooking the orzo, stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. This helps achieve that creamy texture we all love!

• Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your dish before serving! Adjusting seasoning at this stage ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.

• Experiment with Greens: Feel free to swap out spinach for other greens like kale or arugula. Each brings its unique flavor profile and nutritional benefits to the dish.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Presenting your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in an appealing way can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy an extra citrus kick. It brightens up the dish beautifully.
• Chili Flakes: For those who appreciate a little heat, a dash of chili flakes not only looks inviting but also adds an exciting flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots complement the flavors of salmon while providing additional nutrients.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the orzo and salmon.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your skillet.
• Steamed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds elegance to your meal while introducing more vitamins and minerals.

Enjoy this delightful dish surrounded by loved ones; it’s bound to become a favorite at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is not only a quick meal for busy nights, but it also shines when it comes to meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use another type of fish instead of salmon for this one skillet meal?

Absolutely! You can substitute salmon with other firm fish like trout or tilapia. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as different fish may cook faster or slower.

How do I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, simply replace the salmon with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein. You can still enjoy the creamy lemon orzo and spinach without compromising flavor!

Is One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from the salmon and nutrient-rich spinach while being relatively low in carbs. It’s a wholesome meal that offers balanced nutrition.

What should I serve with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

This dish stands on its own beautifully; however, you could pair it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for added variety and color on your plate!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo a try! It’s such a delightful recipe that brings together comforting flavors and easy preparation. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious—just like this dish! Enjoy making it as much as you will savor every bite. Happy cooking!