This yummy one-skillet salmon dish is full of flavor. The salmon cooks perfectly alongside bright lemony orzo, making it a quick and tasty meal!
You’ll love how easy it is—everything cooks in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze. I often serve it with a sprinkle of parsley for extra freshness. Enjoy your simple dinner! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: I love using fresh salmon fillets for this dish, but frozen salmon works well too. Just remember to thaw it first! For a different flavor, you can substitute with trout or even chicken if you prefer.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo adds a nice texture, but if you don’t have it, feel free to use any small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish light. If you’re vegetarian or want to make a vegan version, go for vegetable broth. Water can also be used, but add more seasonings to boost the taste.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is my favorite, but you can use kale or arugula too. If those aren’t on hand, frozen spinach is a great substitute—just thaw and drain it before adding.
How Do I Get the Salmon to Be Perfectly Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked salmon is key to this dish! Here’s how to ensure it’s done just right:
- Start with a hot skillet to achieve a nice sear on the skin. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes on the first side.
- Flip the salmon carefully to avoid breaking it apart. Cook 2-3 extra minutes—salmon continues cooking with residual heat after removing from the skillet.
- Use a fork to check for doneness. Salmon should flake easily and be opaque in the center.
Keep an eye on it, and you’ll have lovely, flaky salmon every time!
Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s the perfect quick weeknight dinner, and since everything is made in one skillet, cleanup is super simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets well, sprinkling salt and pepper on both sides. This adds delicious flavor to the fish!
2. Cook the Salmon:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the salmon, skin-side down, and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Gently flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it’s just cooked through. It should look flaky and opaque. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Don’t let it burn!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Stir in the orzo pasta and let it cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will give it a nice toasted flavor that enhances the dish!
5. Add the Broth and Lemon:
Carefully pour in the chicken broth along with the lemon zest and juice. Bring everything to a boil to combine all those tasty flavors!
6. Simmer the Orzo:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. It should be creamy!
7. Add Spinach:
Stir in the baby spinach and let it cook for just 1-2 minutes until it wilts down. Look at those vibrant greens!
8. Finish with Butter:
Mix in the butter until melted and well-combined. Give it a taste, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
9. Bring Back the Salmon:
Nestle the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo for about 1-2 minutes, just to warm them through.
10. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, garnish your beautiful dish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
This one-pan recipe makes for a flavorful, bright, and simple meal that combines perfectly seared salmon with creamy, lemony orzo and fresh spinach. It’s a balanced dinner that doesn’t require fussing over a lot of pots and pans. Enjoy your delicious dinner! 🌟
FAQ for Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen salmon fillets completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker results. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best sear!
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use any small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even small rice. Just be aware that different grains may require varying cooking times, so check the package instructions to ensure they’re cooked to perfection!
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can cook the orzo and sauce ahead of time, then reheat it gently and add the salmon just before serving. If you’re preparing it in advance, store the salmon separately for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo creamy!
