One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

A delicious dinner awaits with this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender salmon fillets with zesty lemon orzo, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. It’s not only quick to prepare but also a delightful way to impress your family or guests. The best part? Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weekday dinners.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the salmon and nutrients from spinach, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit dietary preferences.
• One-Pan Convenience: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans—this dish is all made in one skillet!

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Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Gather your essential kitchen equipment before starting this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick Skillet: Prevents the salmon from sticking while searing, ensuring a perfect crust.
• Measuring Spoons: Helps you accurately measure spices and ingredients for consistent results.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your nonstick pan.

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 coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Orzo

• 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

For Serving

• 5 ounces baby spinach
• juice from ½ lemon
• 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: Prepare Your Ingredients

Get your prep done before you start cooking:
1. Grate the Parmesan cheese.
2. Finely chop the onion.
3. Mince the garlic cloves.
4. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
5. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear 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 per side until golden brown.
– Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics

Reduce heat to medium; add garlic and onion to the pan.
– Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes.
– Stir in thyme along with remaining salt and pepper.
– Add orzo; toast for 1 minute.

Step 4: 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 5: Add Spinach and Finish Sauce

Add spinach; stir until wilted for about 2 minutes.
– Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
– Add more broth if needed; taste and adjust salt.

Step 6: Return Salmon to Skillet

Return salmon back into the skillet.
– Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving. Enjoy your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo!

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serving One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo can be both delightful and simple. This dish is an all-in-one meal, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A bright salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.
• Cucumber and Feta Salad: Cool cucumbers with tangy feta cheese provide a refreshing contrast to the warm orzo.

Sautéed Vegetables

• Garlic-Infused Broccoli: Quickly sauté broccoli in olive oil and garlic for a nutritious side that adds crunch.
• Seasonal Stir-Fried Veggies: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini stir-fried in soy sauce can add vibrant colors and flavors.

Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve warm slices of sourdough to soak up the lemony broth from the orzo.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as a delicious vessel for enjoying every bit of this delightful dish.

How to Perfect One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

To achieve the best results when preparing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, consider these helpful tips. They will help you master this delicious dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and seasonal spinach make a big difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Keep an eye on your salmon fillets; they should be tender and flaky but not dry.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; you might want more lemon juice or Parmesan for a flavor boost.
• Keep the Heat Moderate: Cooking on medium heat helps prevent burning while ensuring everything cooks evenly.
• Add Extra Broth If Needed: If the orzo absorbs too much liquid, add more chicken broth for creaminess.
• Serve Immediately: This dish tastes best fresh off the stove, so serve it right away for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Pairing sides with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider that will complement your main dish perfectly.

1. Roasted Asparagus: Roasted until tender, asparagus adds a slightly crispy texture that pairs beautifully with salmon.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs provides an extra protein boost while keeping things light.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots adds crunch and freshness to your plate.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans tossed in olive oil offer a simple yet elegant side option.
5. Risotto: Creamy risotto flavored with lemon zest mirrors the orzo’s citrus notes, enhancing your overall dining experience.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs offers another grain option that complements the salmon nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the salmon: This can lead to dry fish. Cook it just until it flakes easily with a fork for the best texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Insufficient seasoning can make the dish bland. Use the recommended spices generously for a flavorful meal.
• Skipping the prep work: Inadequate prep can slow you down while cooking. Always chop and measure ingredients before starting to save time.
• Ignoring the orzo cooking time: Overcooking orzo makes it mushy. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it as it cooks to maintain the right texture.
• Forgetting to taste before serving: Not tasting can result in unbalanced flavors. Always sample your dish before plating to adjust seasoning as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover and reheat for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

You can pair this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I use whole wheat orzo instead?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat orzo for a healthier option, but cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo gluten-free?

Use gluten-free orzo and ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free to keep this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

What is the nutritional value of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

This dish provides approximately 391 calories per serving, making it a healthy choice packed with protein and flavor.

Final Thoughts

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or using different herbs. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without too much fuss!