This tasty one-skillet salmon dish is a breeze to prepare. The salmon cooks up flaky and tender, while zesty lemon orzo adds a bright touch that brightens up your meal!
Cooking everything in one skillet means less mess for me, which is always a win! I love how the lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the salmon. It’s like sunshine on a plate! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is great for this recipe, but you can also use frozen fillets. Just thaw them first. If you prefer a different protein, consider using chicken breast or shrimp instead.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice texture, but if you can’t find it, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice can work. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrition to the dish. If it’s not available, kale or Swiss chard are nice substitutes. You can also use frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and drain it well.
Chicken Broth: Using broth enhances the flavor of the orzo. If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works perfectly. For a low-sodium version, choose low-sodium broth.
How Do I Get Perfectly Sear Salmon?
Searing salmon gives it a lovely golden crust and keeps it juicy. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the olive oil—this helps prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- After seasoning, let salmon sit for 15 minutes to reach room temperature for even cooking.
- Resist flipping the salmon too soon; it should release easily from the pan when it’s ready.
This dish comes together easily and offers a delightful mix of flavors. Happy cooking!
Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp butter
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner without all the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Skillet Ready!
Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. You want it nice and hot to give that salmon a good sear.
2. Season the Salmon
Generously season the salmon fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor.
3. Sear the Salmon
Place the salmon in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for that beautiful golden brown color. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma!
5. Add the Orzo
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring it to coat with the oil and garlic. This helps the pasta absorb all those delicious flavors.
6. Bring to a Boil
Pour in the chicken broth, zest from the lemon, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
7. Cook the Orzo
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Give it a gentle stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
8. Add the Spinach
When the orzo is almost done, stir in the fresh spinach and butter. Cook until the spinach wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Your dish is already looking vibrant!
9. Reintroduce the Salmon
Carefully place the salmon fillets back on top of the orzo. Cover the skillet for another 2 minutes, allowing everything to heat through.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate your delicious salmon over the lemon orzo and spinach mixture. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for a tasty finish. Enjoy your bright, flavorful, and easy one-skillet salmon dinner!
FAQ for Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. To speed up thawing, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
If orzo isn’t available, smaller pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa can be used. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta or grain you choose, and ensure enough liquid is used.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the orzo mixture and store it in the fridge for up to a day. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water when warming to prevent it from drying out.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water or broth to revive the orzo’s texture.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further assistance!
