This One Skillet Lemon Salmon with Easy Orzo is a lovely night-in dinner idea. The fresh lemon and buttery salmon make each bite burst with flavor, all in just one pan!
I love how quick this meal is to whip up! Just toss your salmon and orzo in the pan, and in no time, you’re enjoying a tasty dinner without the big cleanup. It’s like magic!✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here! If you can’t find fresh fillets, frozen salmon works well too. Just thaw it before cooking. Another great option is to use trout or even chicken breasts for a different twist.
Orzo: This pasta is a mini version of rice and cooks quickly. If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with rice, quinoa, or any small pasta like ditalini or farfalle. They all soak up flavors beautifully!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrition. You can swap it with kale or Swiss chard, or even frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen version.
Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan adds a nice touch, you can replace it with pecorino or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. If you prefer something creamier, a dollop of cream cheese would be tasty!
Why is Searing Salmon Important?
Searing the salmon gives it a beautiful golden crust and enhances the flavors. Follow these steps:
- Preheat your skillet until it’s hot, and use enough oil or butter to coat the bottom.
- Place the salmon skin-side up (if the skin is on) and let it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes.
- Carefully flip it over with a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes. You want a nice sear but not overcooked salmon.
This technique locks in the moisture and keeps the salmon tender while adding a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemony orzo!
One Skillet Lemon Salmon with Easy Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook! You’ll spend a bit of time searing the salmon and cooking the orzo, but it all comes together in one skillet, making the clean-up super easy. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start off by seasoning your salmon fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor of the fish.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently add the salmon fillets. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. They don’t have to be fully cooked through yet. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside. This will be added back later!
3. Develop the Flavor:
In the same skillet (no need to clean it!), add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This will add a wonderful aroma to the dish!
4. Cook the Orzo:
Next, stir in the orzo pasta, so it gets coated with the lovely garlic-infused oil. After that, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a simmer. Cook the orzo for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Mix in Fresh Ingredients:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Then, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and stir until they are wilted and vibrant.
6. Return the Salmon:
Now, nestle the salmon fillets back into the skillet right on top of the orzo. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes so the salmon finishes cooking through. You want it to flake easily with a fork!
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the salmon is ready, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the entire dish for that extra little indulgence.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Feeling fancy? Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve it warm and enjoy your flavorful, easy one-pan lemon salmon with creamy orzo!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Definitely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method (sealed in a plastic bag submerged in cold water) before cooking. Pat it dry to avoid excess moisture when searing.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, or you could swap in rice or quinoa. Just adjust the cooking times according to the package instructions for the alternative you choose.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the orzo and the salmon separately in advance and store each in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving, but the salmon is best when freshly cooked to maintain its texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can add a splash of broth or water to help loosen the orzo if it gets dry.
