Description
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Seared tender salmon fillets rest on a bed of creamy garlic Parmesan orzo, infused with fresh lemon juice and wilted spinach. With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is effortless. Serve with a sprinkle of chili flakes for a hint of spice!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Salmon
- 4 skinless salmon fillets
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
For the Lemon Orzo
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
For Serving
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Sear the Salmon
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- 3. Cook the Orzo
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion and garlic to the same skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper, then add the orzo and toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is nearly al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- 4. Finish the Dish
- Stir in spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted.
- Add lemon juice and Parmesan, stirring until creamy. If needed, add extra broth to adjust consistency.
- Return the salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- 5. Serve
- Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Salmon Doneness: Cook salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for best results.
- Make It Creamier: Add a splash of heavy cream for an extra creamy texture.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to prevent the orzo from drying out.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg