This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo dish is super tasty and easy to make! It features tender salmon cooked to perfection with zesty lemon orzo that brightens up the whole plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best for this dish, but you can substitute with skinless chicken breasts or tofu for a lighter option. Both will still absorb the flavors nicely!
Orzo Pasta: If orzo isn’t on hand, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like rice, quinoa, or even couscous. Each option will offer a different texture but will still be delicious.
Spinach: Baby spinach adds a nice touch, but you could switch it for kale, arugula, or Swiss chard. Just note that tougher greens like kale may need a bit longer to wilt.
Chicken Broth: For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works just as well. If you prefer a lighter taste, try a blend of water and lemon juice to keep that citrus flavor.
How Do I Sear Salmon Perfectly?
Searing salmon might feel tricky at first, but with a few simple tips, you’ll be able to achieve that perfect crust! Start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon. Here’s a quick guide:
- Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps it sear instead of steam.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high until it’s hot; you can add a drop of water to test if it’s sizzling.
- Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet. You want a nice layer to prevent sticking.
- Place the salmon skin-side down and gently press down to ensure even contact. Don’t move it around too much.
The key is patience. Allow it to develop that beautiful crust before flipping. It’s all about the right heat and timing!
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo – Easy Healthy Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off as preferred
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Orzo and Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Extras:
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and roughly 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and healthy meal option perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by seasoning the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is key to bringing out the fish’s flavor!
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (or the presentation side down if they don’t have skin). Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the salmon is golden brown. Then, flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are slightly firm but not fully cooked through. After cooking, take the salmon out of the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook until it turns translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Now, add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir it so that it’s coated in the oil and mixed with the onion and garlic. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, along with the lemon zest and juice. Stir everything well, then bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the orzo cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. This will ensure the pasta takes in all those lovely flavors!
6. Add Spinach and Return Salmon:
Stir in the fresh baby spinach and Parmesan cheese until the spinach is wilted. Then, carefully nestle the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Cover and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve:
Finally, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo!
FAQ for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or run it under cold water before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa work great. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust as needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily swap the salmon for firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It will still be delicious and nutritious!
