This Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a real winner! Juicy salmon is cooked to perfection alongside tender orzo and bright lemon—it’s refreshing and satisfying all in one dish.
Cooking in one skillet means less clean-up, which is always a plus! I love how the lemon brings everything together—it’s like a sunny hug on your plate. You’ll want seconds for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider using canned salmon or even tilapia. Both can be great alternatives depending on your preference.
Orzo: Orzo is a small pasta that cooks quickly and works perfectly in this dish. If you don’t have orzo, try using any small pasta like couscous or ditalini. Quinoa or farro can also add a nice texture.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds flavor. If you’re watching sodium, opt for low-sodium options. Homemade broth is also fantastic if you have it on hand.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice pop of color and nutrients. You can substitute with kale, Swiss chard, or even frozen spinach if that’s what you have. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water if using frozen.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking salmon just right is key to this recipe. You want it to be flaky and tender, not dry. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start with a hot skillet. Searing at medium-high gets a nice crust.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for the color change; it should go from deep pink to opaque.
- For the best results, use an instant-read thermometer. Salmon is perfect at 145°F (63°C).
- Let the salmon rest outside the skillet for a couple of minutes after cooking to retain moisture.
These simple steps will help you nail the salmon every time while keeping it juicy and delicious!
Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick meal that packs a ton of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by seasoning the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides. This helps enhance the flavor while cooking.
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and just cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the skillet, and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that lovely garlic aroma!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Now, add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking or burning.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken broth, along with the lemon zest and juice. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Add Spinach:
Once the orzo is cooked, fold in the fresh spinach and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach has wilted down.
7. Mix in the Cheese:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and combined nicely with the orzo.
8. Reintroduce the Salmon:
Carefully nestle the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes to reheat the salmon and allow the flavors to mingle.
9. Final Seasoning:
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to suit your flavor preferences.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, then serve warm! This one-skillet meal is not only delicious but also makes clean-up a breeze!
This dish offers tender, flavorful salmon atop creamy lemony orzo with vibrant spinach in just one skillet for simple, delicious cleanup!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you’re out of orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any 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 to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the orzo and spinach in advance and simply reheat them when ready to serve. Add the salmon fillets just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
