This one-pan salmon dish is so handy! The flaky salmon cooks perfectly while the zesty lemon orzo absorbs all the bright flavors. It’s quick, easy, and makes cleanup a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key for this dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using trout or even chicken breast if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken will take longer to cook through.
Orzo: Orzo pasta adds a nice texture to the dish. If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute with rice, quinoa, or any small pasta like couscous. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary!
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth enhances the flavor of the orzo. Feel free to use low-sodium versions for less salt or homemade broth for an even richer taste.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts down nicely, but I’ve also used kale or Swiss chard when I didn’t have spinach on hand. Just chop them a bit smaller for easier cooking.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Getting salmon just right can be tricky. Here’s a helpful guide:
- Start by heating your skillet well with olive oil before adding the salmon. This helps get a good sear!
- Cook the salmon skin-side down first to help it hold together better. If skinless, just be gentle when flipping.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, but if you see the sides changing color, it’s a good indicator that it’s almost done.
- Don’t worry if it’s slightly undercooked; it will continue to cook in the residual heat once removed from the pan.
Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and efficient dinner option that takes roughly 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by generously seasoning the salmon fillets on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the fish!
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the salmon fillets to the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and just cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step gives the orzo a wonderful nutty flavor.
5. Cook the Orzo in Broth:
Pour in 2 ½ cups of vegetable or chicken broth, along with the zest and juice of the lemon. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir it occasionally and allow it to cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, which should take about 8-10 minutes.
6. Add Spinach and Flavor:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and the fresh baby spinach. If you like a little heat, add the ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes at this point. Cook until the spinach wilts, which will take about 2 minutes.
7. Combine Salmon with Orzo:
Now return the salmon fillets to the skillet, gently nestling them among the orzo mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm the salmon through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is ready, take the lid off and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. If you’d like, sprinkle some extra lemon juice over the top for added zing!
9. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious, vibrant flavors of your easy one skillet salmon with lemon orzo. It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please!
FAQ for Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw salmon overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What Can I Use Instead of Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with small pasta like ditalini, rice, or even quinoa. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary, and adjust the liquid accordingly based on your substitute.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just make sure to add them during the orzo cooking process to allow enough time to cook through.
