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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Toss Orzo with Spinach: Add the cooked orzo into the skillet with the spinach and toss well to combine all the flavors evenly.
- 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.
- 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