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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

A quick and easy dish that combines rich salmon with zesty lemon-infused orzo, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • Juice from ½ lemon
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
  • Chili flakes (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Gather all your ingredients, grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
  2. Season the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon of salt and black pepper.
  3. Sear the salmon: In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon for about 3-4 minutes on each side, then remove from the skillet.
  4. Cook the aromatics: Reduce heat to medium, add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté until soft and fragrant (about 2 minutes).
  5. Toast the orzo: Stir in dried thyme and the remaining salt and black pepper, then add the dry orzo to the skillet and toast for about 1 minute.
  6. Add the chicken broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until orzo is almost al dente (about 8 minutes).
  7. Incorporate spinach and Parmesan: Stir in baby spinach and simmer until wilted (about 2 minutes). Add lemon juice and grated Parmesan, mixing well.
  8. Return the salmon: Place the seared salmon back in the skillet and simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  9. Serve: Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Serve hot directly from the skillet, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired. This dish stores well in the refrigerator for about 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, orzo, one skillet meal, healthy recipe, quick dinner