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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

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This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and flavorful meal combining perfectly seared salmon fillets with creamy, lemon-infused orzo pasta cooked alongside baby spinach. Made all in one pan, this recipe offers a delicious balance of tender fish, vibrant herbs, and a hint of spice from chili flakes for an effortless yet elegant dinner.

Ingredients

Salmon and Seasoning

  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt - divided
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper - divided
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Cooking Base

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion - finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves - minced

Orzo and Flavorings

  • 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

For Serving

  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare ingredients: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides of the salmon with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half of the salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add the salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium and add garlic and onion to the same skillet. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in dried thyme and the remaining salt and pepper for seasoning.
  4. Toast orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
  5. Cook orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking, until the orzo is nearly al dente and most liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
  6. Add spinach and finish orzo: Stir in the baby spinach and simmer until wilted, approximately 2 minutes. Mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. Add more broth if needed to reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
  7. Reheat salmon: Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the salmon is heated through.
  8. Serve: Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes according to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful one-pan meal!

Notes

  • Use low sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
  • Substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes if desired, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • Add a splash of white wine along with the broth for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Ensure salmon fillets are of even thickness for consistent cooking.
  • If you prefer, use vegetable broth to make this recipe pescatarian friendly.

Find it online: https://alinacooks.com/one-skillet-salmon-with-lemon-orzo-recipe/