One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the perfect quick meal for busy nights. This all-in-one dish features pan-seared salmon along with lemony orzo, spinach, and Parmesan, making it both flavorful and satisfying. It’s great for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. With just one skillet to clean, it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy a delicious meal on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• One Skillet Wonder: All ingredients cook together in one pan, minimizing cleanup time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan elevates the taste of the dish.
• Versatile Meal: Great for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners alike.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from salmon and nutrients from spinach, it’s a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Prevents food from sticking, ensuring easy cooking and cleanup.
• Measuring spoons: Helps in accurately measuring seasonings for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

A fuss-free meal with pan-seared salmon and lemony orzo cooked together with spinach and Parmesan for a quick and easy dinner. A winner for busy nights— this all-in-one dish is sure to be loved by everyone at your table!

For the Salmon

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 tsp salt (divided)
• 1 tsp black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Orzo

• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth

For the Spinach Mixture

• 5 ounces baby spinach
• Juice from ½ lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

Cooking Essentials

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp unsalted butter
• Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• Chili flakes (for serving)

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

Get your prep done before you start cooking:
1. Grate the Parmesan cheese.
2. Finely chop the onion.
3. Mince the garlic cloves.
4. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
5. Season both sides of the salmon with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet:
– Add salmon fillets to the skillet.
– Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
– Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics

Reduce heat to medium:
– Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet.
– Cook until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
– Stir in dried thyme along with remaining salt and pepper.
– Add orzo pasta; toast for 1 minute.

Step 4: Simmer Orzo

Pour in chicken broth:
– Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer.
– Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally until almost al dente, about 8 minutes.

Step 5: Add Spinach & Flavoring

Add spinach to the skillet:
– Stir until wilted for about 2 minutes.
– Mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan.
– Adjust seasoning as needed by adding more broth if necessary.

Step 6: Heat Salmon Through

Return seared salmon to the skillet:
– Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving. Enjoy your delicious One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo!

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serving One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is easy and can be a delightful experience for everyone at the table. This dish not only looks appealing but also offers a burst of flavors that can be complemented with various sides and garnishes.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to enhance the citrus flavors of the dish.

Pair with Light Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance.
• Cucumber Tomato Salad: This salad adds crunch and a hint of sweetness to complement the richness of salmon.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: A slice of sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce or broth from the orzo.
• Garlic Bread: For those who love bold flavors, garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Add a Splash of Color

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for added texture and color on the plate.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings elegance and nutrition to your meal.

How to Perfect One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

To achieve the best results with your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both the flavor and presentation of your dish.

• Bold Seasoning: Use generous amounts of salt, pepper, and spices when seasoning your salmon to bring out its natural flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and baby spinach will elevate the taste compared to dried or frozen alternatives.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should flake easily but still be moist inside.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring the orzo occasionally while it cooks helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is traditional, try adding feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust Broth Levels: If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add more chicken broth as needed during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Complementing your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is essential for a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair beautifully:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets add color and nutrients alongside your rich salmon dish.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables provides healthy grains and fiber.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the soft orzo.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that many enjoy.
5. Herbed Rice Pilaf: A light herbed rice pilaf complements the flavors of lemon in your main dish without overpowering it.
6. Carrot and Celery Sticks: Crunchy vegetable sticks served raw provide a refreshing contrast to cooked meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not patting the salmon dry: Failing to remove excess moisture can prevent the salmon from searing properly. Always pat the fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning.

• Overcooking the orzo: Cooking the orzo for too long can result in a mushy texture. Keep an eye on it and aim for an al dente finish, as it will continue to cook slightly after being removed from heat.

• Skipping flavoring the broth: Using plain broth can lead to a bland dish. Enhance the flavor by adding herbs and spices, such as thyme and garlic, when cooking the orzo.

• Ignoring the resting time for salmon: Cutting into the salmon immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, leading to dryness. Allow it to rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

• Not adjusting seasoning: The flavors can vary based on personal taste and ingredients used. Always taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1 minute at a time) on medium power until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo:

Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

Yes! Other fish like trout or tilapia can work well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as necessary since different fish have varying cooking rates.

What sides pair well with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

This dish is quite filling on its own but pairs nicely with a light salad or steamed vegetables for added color and crunch.

Can I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

What is the best way to season my salmon fillets?

For optimal flavor, combine garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper before seasoning your fillets. This enhances their natural taste beautifully!

How do I ensure my orzo cooks properly?

Be sure to stir occasionally while cooking, which helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking. Follow package instructions for timing as well.

Final Thoughts

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings according to your taste preferences!