This One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo is a tasty and easy dish! The salmon is perfectly cooked while the lemony orzo absorbs all those delicious flavors.
I love how everything cooks in just one skillet, making clean-up a breeze! Plus, the fresh lemon adds a bright touch that makes it feel special. Yum! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish, giving it a lovely flavor and texture. If you want a budget-friendly option, try using trout or tilapia instead. Both will work well for this recipe too!
Orzo: This small pasta adds a nice texture to the dish. If you’re not a fan or don’t have any, substitute with any small pasta like couscous or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach wilts beautifully and adds nutrition. For an alternative, you could use kale or Swiss chard. Just remember to cook them a bit longer than spinach to soften them.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor and color. If you can’t find them, try using fresh cherry tomatoes. Just chop them and add them to the dish for a fresher taste!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, goat cheese works nicely, or you can skip cheese altogether for a lighter version.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon perfectly requires attention to both time and heat. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet! Medium-high heat allows for a nice sear.
- Season the salmon well with salt and pepper; this enhances the flavor.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side without moving them around to develop a nice crust. Aim for a slightly undercooked center; it will continue cooking after you remove it from the heat.
- Let the salmon rest briefly before serving; this keeps it moist and tender.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have delicious, flaky salmon every time!
Delicious One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Orzo and Vegetables:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Flavoring:
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Garnish:
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection in one skillet. It’s a quick, easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
First, take your salmon fillets and sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step will enhance the flavor of your fish and prepare it for cooking.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down. Sear the salmon for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s golden and nearly cooked through. Then, carefully remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sautéing Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Stir it around until it becomes fragrant; this will infuse the oil with delicious garlic flavor.
4. Toasting Orzo:
Next, add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Toast it lightly for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This step adds a nutty flavor to the orzo that will complement the dish beautifully.
5. Cooking the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Add Greens and Flavors:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the spinach has wilted and everything is well combined.
7. Combine Salmon and Orzo:
Return the cooked salmon to the skillet, placing it right on top of the orzo mixture to warm through slightly. This helps the salmon absorb those yummy flavors!
8. Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley over the salmon and orzo for added flavor and presentation.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo warm, with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest if desired. Enjoy this comforting and delicious meal with your loved ones!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Instead of Fresh?
Yes! If using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry to ensure a good sear.
Can I Substitute Quinoa for Orzo?
Absolutely! Quinoa is a great gluten-free option. Use the same quantity and adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions, as quinoa usually cooks a bit faster than orzo.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
What Can I Use Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, fresh cherry tomatoes work well! Chop them and sauté until slightly softened. You can also skip them entirely for a lighter flavor.
