This Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and tasty dish! It features juicy salmon cooked perfectly alongside zesty lemon-flavored orzo pasta. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If you’re looking for a budget option, you can also use frozen salmon, just make sure to thaw it first. Other fish like trout or tilapia could work too!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice texture but if you’re out, you can substitute with other small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time for different grains!
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds color and nutrients, but if you don’t have it, kale or Swiss chard can be used instead. Frozen spinach is also a good alternative; just make sure to drain excess water well.
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish light. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or use water mixed with seasoning for a budget-friendly alternative.
How Do I Cook Salmon Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking salmon to perfection can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure it turns out flaky and moist:
- Start with dry salmon: Patting it dry helps achieve that crispy skin or nice sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat your skillet well: A hot skillet ensures the salmon gets a good sear. Medium-high heat is typically best.
- Don’t flip too soon: Wait until the fish naturally releases from the pan before flipping, usually around 4-5 minutes. Cook skin-side down first for the best results.
- Cover to finish cooking: After flipping, covering the skillet helps the salmon cook evenly without drying out.
Following these tips will help you achieve that perfect salmon every time!
Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you will need about 30 minutes to whip up this delightful meal, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better! Season each side with salt and black pepper to taste. Get your flavors started right here!
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is nice and hot, gently place the salmon fillets skin side down (or just one side if there’s no skin). Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the salmon is golden brown. It should smell amazing!
3. Flip and Cook:
Carefully flip the salmon using a spatula and cook for an additional 2 minutes to finish. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This is going to add great flavor!
5. Cook the Orzo:
Next, add the orzo pasta and stir it to coat with the oil and garlic. It’s getting delicious already! Pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir everything together.
6. Simmer and Cook:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender. It’s all coming together!
7. Add the Spinach:
Stir in the fresh baby spinach and red pepper flakes (if you like some heat). Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts beautifully. Look at that color!
8. Return the Salmon:
Now, it’s time to nestle the salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Cover and cook for another 2 minutes to heat the salmon all the way through.
9. Final Touches:
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Isn’t it gorgeous?
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious one skillet salmon with lemon orzo immediately. Enjoy this flavor-packed meal with family or friends—you deserve it!
This recipe makes for a complete meal in one pan with tender, seared salmon, zesty lemon orzo, and fresh spinach, all with minimal cleanup. What more could you ask for?
FAQ for Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thawing overnight in the refrigerator is best, but you can also place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can easily substitute it with other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta or grain you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the orzo moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the orzo and sauce a few hours in advance. Just reheat gently before adding the salmon to ensure everything is warmed through and delicious!
