This One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo is a simple and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy nights. The salmon is flaky and tender, while the lemon orzo is bright and cheerful!
Cooking everything in one skillet makes clean-up a breeze—my favorite part! I love how the lemon adds a zesty touch; it’s like a little sunshine on your plate. 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If you’re looking for a more affordable option or a different flavor, you can substitute with trout, tilapia, or even canned salmon for convenience.
Orzo: This small pasta adds a nice texture. If you’re gluten-free, try using quinoa or rice instead. Both will work well and absorb the flavors beautifully.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, but if you have frozen spinach, it can be a great substitute—just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding. Kale can also work if you want a heartier green.
Parmesan Cheese: For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor. If you prefer a different cheese, try pecorino or grated mozzarella.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky, but it’s easier than you think! The goal is to keep it moist and flaky. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet to achieve that nice sear. A bit of oil helps prevent sticking.
- Time is key! Don’t overcook the salmon; about 3-4 minutes per side should do the trick.
- Look for the fish to change color from a dark hue to a lighter, opaque color, indicating it’s done.
- Let it rest after cooking; this ensures the juices stay inside.
Remember, if you’re unsure, it’s better to slightly undercook as the salmon will continue to cook in the residual heat!
One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You Will Need:
- For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything in one skillet. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by seasoning the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the fish.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is shimmering before adding the salmon to get a good sear.
3. Sear the Salmon:
Add the seasoned salmon fillets to the skillet. Sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and almost cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
5. Cook the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil and garlic. Next, pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing everything to a simmer.
6. Simmer Until Tender:
Cook the orzo for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If it gets too dry, you can add a bit more water or broth as needed.
7. Add the Veggies:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Cook for another minute or two until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
8. Return the Salmon:
Now, nestle the salmon back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Let it warm through for about 2 minutes.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the salmon over a bed of lemon orzo and garnish with extra parsley and lemon slices if desired. Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
Happy cooking, and enjoy your flavorful, easy dinner!
Can I Substitute Other Proteins for Salmon?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can use other fish like trout or tilapia. Chicken thighs or firm tofu can also be great alternatives if you’re looking for non-seafood options.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Orzo?
No worries! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with any small pasta, such as couscous or quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time according to the alternative you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo and salmon ahead of time. Just reheat everything in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if needed to revive the dish’s creaminess.
