One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a meal that’s quick, delicious, and easy to prepare. With pan-seared salmon paired with lemony orzo, spinach, and Parmesan, this dish brings fresh flavors to your dinner table without the fuss. Ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this one-skillet wonder ensures minimal cleanup while maximizing taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of salmon, lemon, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience that pleases everyone.
- Versatile Meal: Great for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy date night.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the salmon and nutrients from the spinach.
- Minimal Cleanup: One skillet means less time spent washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo requires just a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cooking of salmon while ensuring even heat distribution.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
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
For Cooking
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 5 ounces baby spinach
For Garnishing
- 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
Start by preparing all your ingredients.
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 of the salmon fillets 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 skillet.
1. Add the seasoned salmon fillets to the skillet.
2. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
3. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook Aromatics
Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet.
1. Add minced garlic and chopped onion.
2. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes.
3. Stir in thyme along with remaining salt and pepper.
4. Add orzo into the skillet and toast for about 1 minute.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
1. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer.
2. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally until most liquid is absorbed, approximately 8 minutes.
Step 5: Add Spinach
Stir in baby spinach into the skillet.
1. Simmer until wilted for about 2 minutes.
2. Mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese; add more broth if needed.
3. Taste test to adjust salt levels.
Step 6: Reintroduce Salmon
Return seared salmon to the skillet with orzo mixture.
1. Simmer together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Step 7: Serve
Top your dish with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving warm! Enjoy this delightful meal!
How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Serving One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is simple and delightful. This dish pairs well with various accompaniments, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.
- Cucumber Tomato Salad: This refreshing salad adds crunch and acidity, balancing the creamy orzo perfectly.
Incorporate Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted Broccoli: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli adds a nutritious touch that pairs well with salmon.
- Carrots and Zucchini Medley: Lightly seasoned and roasted until tender, this medley enhances your meal’s color and flavors.
Offer Bread Options
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce or broth from the dish.
- Garlic Bread: A flavorful garlic bread adds an aromatic element that complements the lemony notes in the orzo.
Enhance with Sauces
- Lemon Garlic Sauce: Drizzle homemade lemon garlic sauce over the salmon for extra citrus flavor.
- Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce adds creaminess and freshness, perfect for dipping.
How to Perfect One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
To make your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo even better, consider these helpful tips.
- seasoning: Don’t be shy with your spices—season the salmon generously to enhance its flavors.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish significantly.
- Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on the salmon; it should flake easily but not be overcooked.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or dill for added freshness and complexity.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking while everything is warm and flavorful.
- Grate cheese fresh: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better into the orzo than pre-grated options.
Best Side Dishes for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Pairing side dishes with your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo will enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the lemony flavors beautifully.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf can add a wholesome touch while remaining light and fluffy.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a pop of color and crispness to your plate.
- Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option provides a nice texture without overwhelming the main dish.
- Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives and feta creates a delightful Mediterranean flair.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory elements of the dish wonderfully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the salmon – Ensure you monitor the cooking time. Salmon cooks quickly, and overcooking can lead to dryness. Aim for a perfect sear on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your salmon fillets properly can result in bland flavors. Use garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper generously for a delicious taste.
- Not preparing ingredients in advance – Preparing your ingredients ahead of time can streamline the cooking process. Chop your onion and mince garlic before getting started to save time.
- Ignoring the orzo’s cooking instructions – Orzo requires careful attention as it cooks quickly. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on liquid absorption to avoid overcooking.
- Adding spinach too early – Adding spinach too soon can lead to mushiness. Wait until just before serving to add it so it retains its freshness and color.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals until hot.
- Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a skillet. Add a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo that might help you make this dish even better.
Can I use frozen salmon for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What sides go well with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?
Consider serving a light salad or steamed vegetables alongside this dish for a balanced meal.
How do I customize One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?
You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or swap salmon for another fish like trout or tilapia.
Can I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes for great leftovers, making it ideal for meal prepping.
Final Thoughts
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions!
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is your go-to dish for busy weeknights when you need a quick, tasty, and nutritious meal. This delightful recipe features tender pan-seared salmon paired with creamy lemony orzo, vibrant spinach, and savory Parmesan cheese. Not only does it bring fresh flavors to your dinner table, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for both family dinners and casual gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a wholesome meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless salmon fillets
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice from ½ lemon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt (divided)
- 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
- chili flakes (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: chop onion, mince garlic, and season salmon fillets with spices.
- Sear salmon in a nonstick skillet with olive oil and butter for 3-4 minutes each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add thyme and orzo; toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer until orzo absorbs most liquid (about 8 minutes).
- Stir in spinach until wilted; mix in lemon juice and Parmesan.
- Return salmon to skillet; simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve warm topped with freshly ground black pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
