This Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a winner for weeknight dinners! You’ll love how quickly the flaky salmon pairs with the zesty lemon orzo, all cooked in one pan.
I enjoy this meal because cleanup is a breeze! Just toss everything into the skillet and let it work its magic. It’s a delicious way to brighten up any evening! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are perfect for this dish, but frozen works too! Just make sure to thaw them completely first. If you’re not a salmon lover, you can substitute with trout or even chicken breasts.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is so fun to eat! If you can’t find orzo, consider using rice or quinoa as alternatives. Cook them according to their package instructions for a similar result.
Chicken Broth: For a lighter dish, use vegetable broth instead. Homemade broth is great if you have some on hand! If you need a low-sodium option, that works well too.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. If you don’t have any, you can use kale or arugula. Just remember that arugula has a peppery taste, which might change the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice cheesy flavor, but you can swap it for another cheese like pecorino or a dairy-free option if needed. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative for cheesy flavor!
How Do I Get My Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it! The key is to not overcook it, as salmon can dry out quickly.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding the salmon. This will give it a nice sear.
- Cook skin-side down first if it’s still on; it helps keep the fish moist. Flip when it’s 75% cooked.
- Look for the salmon to become opaque and flake easily with a fork. It usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick fillet.
Feel free to use a meat thermometer: aim for 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon! Just remember, it will continue cooking slightly after you take it off the heat.
Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Orzo:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, and since everything is made in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel, then generously season both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor beautifully!
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the salmon fillets. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and just cooked through. Then, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it releases a lovely aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring it with the onion and garlic mixture. Toast the orzo for about 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly golden and fragrant. This step adds a nice depth of flavor.
5. Simmer with Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, along with the lemon zest and juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and much of the liquid is absorbed, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Add Spinach:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the spinach is just wilted and bright green.
7. Combine with Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes, if using. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste!
8. Reheat the Salmon:
Carefully place the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo mixture. Let them warm through for about a minute.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful, easy one-pan salmon and lemon orzo dinner!
FAQ for Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is to leave it in the fridge overnight or to place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No worries! If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta like couscous or even rice. Just cook them according to the package instructions, and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they blend well with the dish.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using whole wheat orzo for added fiber! You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat cheese alternative to cut down on calories while still enjoying a cheesy flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
