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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe


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4 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Lea
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A quick and flavorful one skillet salmon dish featuring tender salmon fillets cooked to perfection alongside lemon-infused orzo pasta and fresh spinach, all topped with grated Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this healthy and satisfying meal combines vibrant citrus flavors with a creamy texture, perfect for a weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Salmon and Seasoning

  • 1 pound salmon fillets
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Other Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese


Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Prepare the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the orzo thoroughly and set it aside to be added later.
  2. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Drizzle and rub the salmon with lemon juice to add bright citrus flavor.
  3. Cook the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Wilt the Spinach: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  5. Toss Orzo with Spinach: Add the cooked orzo into the skillet with the spinach and toss well to combine all the flavors evenly.
  6. Return Salmon to Skillet: Nestle the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo and spinach mixture. Squeeze additional lemon juice over the top for a fresh zing.
  7. Add Parmesan and Serve: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and serve immediately while warm for a deliciously balanced meal.

Notes

  • To prevent the salmon from sticking, make sure the skillet and olive oil are sufficiently heated before adding the fish.
  • For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
  • Use low-sodium broth instead of water when cooking orzo to enhance flavor.
  • If you prefer a crispier salmon skin, cook the fillets longer skin-side down and avoid flipping too often.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean