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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful, quick meal that makes weeknight dinners both satisfying and flavorful. This all-in-one dish features perfectly pan-seared salmon paired with zesty lemon orzo, fresh spinach, and a touch of Parmesan for an extra layer of richness. Not only is it healthy and packed with protein, but it also minimizes cleanup with just one skillet needed for preparation. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy family dinner, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • Juice from ½ lemon
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 tsp black pepper (divided)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
  • Chili flakes (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Grate the Parmesan cheese, chop the onion finely, and mince the garlic cloves.
  2. Pat the salmon dry and season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil and butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown; remove from skillet.
  4. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and onion to the skillet; cook until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Stir in thyme, remaining salt, and pepper.
  5. Add orzo; toast for 1 minute before pouring in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 8 minutes or until almost al dente.
  6. Stir in spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes), then mix in lemon juice and Parmesan.
  7. Return salmon to skillet; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

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