Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta mimics a grain and cooks quickly. If you don’t have orzo, you can swap it for rice or quinoa, but adjust cooking times and liquid accordingly.

Salmon: I love using fresh, skin-on salmon for extra flavor. If salmon isn’t available, try another fish like trout or even chicken for a different taste! Just be mindful of the cook times.

Broth: Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth adds a nice depth. If you prefer a lighter dish or are vegetarian, vegetable broth is great. You can also use water in a pinch, but it won’t be as flavorful.

Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If you’re out, kale or arugula can be good substitutes, though they may take a bit longer to wilt.

Fresh Lemon: The lemon zest and juice brighten the dish. If you’re short on fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works too, but fresh is always best!

How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly in One Skillet?

Cooking salmon to perfection is key to this recipe. You want it golden outside and tender inside. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat the oil in your skillet over medium heat; this ensures an even cook.
• Season the salmon and add it to the skillet skin-side down, if applicable. This helps keep it moist.
• Cook for 4-5 minutes per side. The salmon will release easily from the pan once it’s ready, and look for a nice golden color.
• If using skin-on, cook the skin side until crispy before flipping; it adds texture!

Following these tips will help you serve a delicious, flaky salmon every time! Enjoy your meal! 😊

Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 1 lb salmon fillets (skinless or skin-on, about 4 portions)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This quick and delicious dish will take approximately 25-30 minutes to make from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 15-20 minutes cooking everything in one skillet. Ideal for a busy day but still wanting something special!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil and Cook the Salmon:

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it’s heating, season your salmon fillets well with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, place the salmon in the skillet, skin-side down if there is skin. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

2. Sauté Garlic and Add Orzo:

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring until it’s fragrant but not browned. Next, add the orzo to the skillet, stirring it to coat with the oil and garlic flavor.

3. Cook the Orzo:

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

4. Add the Flavorful Ingredients:

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh spinach. You can also add the crushed red pepper flakes here if you want a little heat. Cook this for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts down.

5. Nestle the Salmon Back:

Gently return the salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm the salmon through if needed.

6. Final Touches:

Taste the dish and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Then, serve the salmon on a bed of lemony orzo. If you’d like, top it with some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor!

Enjoy your flavorful, healthy one-skillet meal with minimal cleanup! This dish is bright, fresh, and perfect for any night of the week! 😊

FAQ for Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Orzo?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but be aware that it will require more liquid and a longer cook time. Check the package instructions for the right ratio of liquid and cooking time, as brown rice typically takes about 30-40 minutes to cook.

What Vegetables Can I Add?

Feel free to get creative! You can add broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and color. Just chop them into small pieces and add them when you stir in the spinach so they have time to cook through.

How to 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. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Can I Make This Recipe with Other Types of Fish?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other firm fish like trout, cod, or halibut. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets to ensure they are cooked through.