Description
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and delicious meal that brings together perfectly seared salmon and creamy lemon orzo in just one pan. This dish is not only ideal for busy weeknights but also a fantastic option for special occasions. With its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, this recipe ensures you can enjoy a wholesome dinner without spending all evening in the kitchen. The zesty lemon and savory chicken broth create a delightful sauce that pairs beautifully with tender salmon and fresh spinach, making this meal both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 skinless salmon fillets
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- Juice from ½ lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt (divided)
- 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
- chili flakes (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Grate Parmesan, chop onion, mince garlic, and season salmon fillets.
- Sear salmon: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Cook aromatics: In the same skillet, cook onion and garlic until fragrant. Stir in thyme and then add orzo to toast for about a minute.
- Simmer orzo: Pour in chicken broth; bring to boil then reduce to simmer until most liquid is absorbed (about 8 minutes).
- Add spinach & flavor: Stir in spinach until wilted; mix in lemon juice and Parmesan.
- Return salmon: Add back the salmon to the skillet; simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve: Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with orzo (320g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg