Go Back
–+ servings
Delicious 6ac985d170

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

A cozy, quick dinner featuring tender salmon and creamy lemon orzo, perfect for weeknight meals.
No ratings yet
Rate this Recipe Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon

  • 4 fillets skinless salmon fillets Wild-caught preferred for flavor; farmed salmon also works.
  • 1 tsp salt Divided for seasoning.
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper Divided for seasoning.
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika Adds color and depth.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder A pantry staple for flavor.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil For searing the salmon.
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter Adds richness to the salmon.

For the Orzo

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta Cooks quickly and adds fun texture.
  • 1 yellow onion finely chopped Caramelizes beautifully for flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced for aroma and depth.
  • 1 tsp dried thyme For herbal notes enriching the dish.
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth Liquid base for cooking orzo.
  • 5 ounces baby spinach Adds greens and nutrition.
  • 1/2 lemon Juice from Brightens the dish.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Brings creaminess.
  • 1 tsp salt For flavor.
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper For seasoning.

For Serving

  • to taste freshly ground black pepper A finishing touch.
  • to taste chili flakes Optional for heat.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Grate Parmesan cheese and chop onion and garlic.
  • Dry salmon fillets and season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, and salt and pepper.

Cooking

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove from skillet.
  • Sauté onion in the same skillet for about 2 minutes. Add garlic, sauté for 1 more minute.
  • Add thyme and remaining salt and pepper.
  • Toast orzo in the skillet for 1 minute.
  • Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer until orzo is nearly al dente, about 8 minutes.
  • Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  • Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Return salmon to skillet for 2-3 more minutes.
  • Serve with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, One Skillet, Salmon, Weeknight Meals
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!