This easy one-skillet salmon dish is a real winner! The salmon cooks to flaky perfection while soaking up bright lemon flavors, and it all happens in one pan with tasty orzo pasta.
You’ll love how quick this meal comes together. Plus, less clean-up means more time to enjoy those delicious bites. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal for its rich flavor, but feel free to substitute with trout or even canned salmon if you’re short on time. Just adjust the cooking time as canned salmon is already cooked.
Orzo: Orzo gives a nice texture, but if you don’t have it, try using small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous as substitutes. Just watch the cooking times!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan amps up the flavor. If you’re looking for a lactose-free option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. If you’re out, kale or Swiss chard can work too — just cook them a bit longer until tender.
How Do I Get Perfectly Seared Salmon?
Getting perfectly seared salmon is key to this dish. Start with a hot skillet and don’t rush the process. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to promote browning.
- Add olive oil to a preheated skillet; it should shimmer but not smoke.
- Place the salmon skin-side up and leave it alone for 3-4 minutes. Flip when it’s golden and releases easily from the pan.
Remember, overcooking is a common mistake; salmon should feel slightly firm but still moist. Enjoy your delicious results!
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
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious meal will take about 30 minutes total! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking in the skillet. It’s a quick dish that flavors your table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by seasoning the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides. This helps build flavor!
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, carefully add the salmon fillets. Sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This adds a delicious base flavor!
4. Add Garlic:
Now, incorporate the minced garlic. Stir it in for about 30 seconds until you can smell the aroma waft through your kitchen. It’s getting tasty!
5. **Cook the Orzo:**
Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring it to coat it in the oil and onion mixture. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
6. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, while stirring occasionally, for about 9-11 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed. It’s looking good!
7. Mix in Flavor:
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes! Stir well to combine everything.
8. Add Spinach:
It’s time for the fresh baby spinach! Gently stir it into the mixture until it wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The color and flavor it adds is simply wonderful!
9. Reheat the Salmon:
Now, nestle those beautiful salmon fillets back into the skillet among the lemon orzo. Cover the skillet and let it cook on low for another 2 minutes. This reheats the salmon and melds the flavors together!
10. Serve and Garnish:
Turn off the heat! Garnish your delicious meal with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of pepper if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful one-skillet dish with family or friends!
This one-pan meal combines flaky, perfectly cooked salmon with creamy, bright lemon orzo and fresh spinach—a quick, flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup! Enjoy! 🌟
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Fish?
Absolutely! While salmon is the star of this dish, you can substitute it with trout, cod, or even tilapia. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fish you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the orzo pasta with a gluten-free pasta option, such as quinoa pasta or a gluten-free orzo. Just ensure you follow the package cooking instructions for best results.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the orzo and the sautéed vegetables ahead of time. Store them in the fridge, then simply add the salmon and reheat everything together in the skillet when ready to serve for the best flavor.
What Should I Serve With This Meal?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrition. Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a lovely pairing!
