This tasty dish features juicy salmon cooked in one skillet, paired with fluffy lemon orzo that’s zesty and bright. Super easy cleanup means more time to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe. If salmon isn’t available, try using trout or any firm white fish. They’re delicious too!
Orzo: Orzo is a wonderful choice for a light pasta feel. If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous or even brown rice. Just be mindful of cooking times.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds flavor. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, many store-bought broths are available. You can also make your own at home!
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds color and nutrition. Feel free to swap it out for kale or Swiss chard. Just cook them a bit longer till they’re soft.
Parmesan: Grated Parmesan gives a nice salty finish. If you want a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
How Do I Cook Salmon Perfectly?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky! The key is to sear it well and avoid overcooking. Follow these steps for great results:
- Always start with a hot skillet. This prevents sticking and creates a great sear.
- Cook skinless fillets for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden color.
- Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through when you remove it; it will finish cooking while resting and when added back to the dish.
- Let the cooked salmon rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Cooking salmon can be intimidating, but with a little practice, you’ll nail it every time!
One Skillet Salmon with Easy Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes in total. With just a few minutes to prep and around 20 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Salmon:
Start by generously seasoning the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper. This helps to enhance their natural flavor and gives you a tasty foundation for the dish.
2. Cooking the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and nearly cooked through. Then, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside. This step ensures the salmon stays juicy and flavorful!
3. Sautéing Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, keep the delicious flavors going by adding in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s aromatic—your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Toasting the Orzo:
Now, it’s time to add the orzo pasta. Stir it in and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes. This adds a lovely nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
5. Bringing the Lemon Flavor:
Pour in the broth, lemon zest, and juice. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the orzo cooks evenly and absorbs all that delicious flavor!
6. Adding Spinach and Spice:
After the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and, if you like a little heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for just 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts down and becomes bright green.
7. Finishing Touches:
Carefully return the salmon fillets to the skillet, placing them on top of the orzo. Cover the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm the salmon and finish cooking through.
8. Adding Cheese and Serving:
Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish. Cover it for about 1 minute to let the cheese melt slightly, then uncover. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a lovely touch!
Enjoy this comforting, bright, and flavorful one-skillet meal with minimal cleanup—perfect for a busy evening!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking for the best results!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Definitely! You can cook the orzo and sauce ahead of time, then simply reheat them on the stove before adding the salmon. Just be sure to cook the salmon fresh so it stays juicy and delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore moisture.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. Just cook them along with the onions to ensure they’re tender and flavorful before adding the orzo.
