One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Capturing the essence of a breezy dinner on a warm night, One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo seamlessly combines the bold flavors of perfectly seared salmon with the comforting elegance of creamy, lemon-infused orzo. The vibrant zest of fresh lemon dances harmoniously with the rich, flaky fish, while the orzo provides a soothing touch that comforts your soul. Imagine a dish that not only wows your taste buds but also brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reminiscent of family gatherings or serene evenings spent with loved ones.
With its straightforward preparation and minimal cleanup, this recipe beckons you to dive into a world of culinary delight without the stress of a lengthy cooking process. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, this dish promises an abundance of goodness that will leave everyone craving more.
What’s Your Favorite Seafood Memory?
How often have you sat around the dinner table, sharing stories rich with laughter and love while the aroma of fresh seafood enveloped the room? Seafood has a way of igniting those cherished moments, drawing us closer together.
Imagine this: it’s a warm summer evening, and you’re gathered with friends, the sun setting in vibrant colors, the grill sizzling nearby. You have a plate of perfectly seared salmon paired with luscious lemon orzo, and as you take that first bite, the flavors burst like a celebration in your mouth.
Doesn’t that make you crave a dinner like this? Doesn’t it stir up a desire for something comforting yet elevating?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you’re short on time but high on flavor, One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo steps up:
Easy Prep: This dish requires minimal preparation and uses just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Healthy and Delicious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and the nutritious goodness of spinach or kale, it’s a healthful choice without compromising on taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its classic flavors cater to everyone, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Minimal Ingredients: The recipe employs simple ingredients that meld beautifully, so you can whip it up with pantry staples.
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)
1 tbsp olive oil (for the salmon)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter (for the orzo)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 small shallot (finely chopped)
1 cup dry orzo pasta
2 1/4 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
1 cup baby spinach or chopped kale (optional greens)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or dill (chopped for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Get ready for a flavor explosion that is equal parts refreshing and indulgent! Each ingredient plays a role: the salmon, rich and buttery; the lemon—zesty and vibrant; and the orzo offering a lovely, creamy texture, reminiscent of a hug on your plate.
Timing
Join the beauty of quick cooking and wholesome ingredients with this dish that strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and speed.
You’ll find that it takes roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those nights when you want to pamper yourself but don’t want to be slaving over a hot stove for hours. In mere moments, you’re transported from the hustle and bustle of daily life to a tranquil culinary escape in your kitchen!
Step-by-Step
Season the salmon: Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Rub each fillet with olive oil to help the spices adhere, then season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Allow them to rest while you prepare the orzo.
Sear the salmon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down, and sear for 3–4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Gently flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes. Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside. You want to keep those delightful juices intact!
Sauté aromatics and toast orzo: Reduce the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add either olive oil or unsalted butter. Sauté minced garlic and finely chopped shallots for 1–2 minutes until they become fragrant. Next, add the dry orzo, stirring for another 1–2 minutes to lightly toast.
Simmer the orzo: Pour in the broth, and add in the lemon zest and juice. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a low simmer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and much of the liquid is absorbed, forming a creamy base.
Finish the orzo: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and if you’re looking for an extra decadent touch, add in the heavy cream. Toss in the baby spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt for another 1–2 minutes. Don’t forget to taste-test and adjust your seasoning with salt and pepper.
Return the salmon and serve: Nestle the beautifully seared salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the lush orzo. Cover the skillet and continue cooking on low for an additional 2–3 minutes or until the salmon is fully cooked through and heartwarming. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and serve with lemon wedges on the side, the perfect complement!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo brings approximately 450 calories, rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a balanced meal that indulges both the body and mind. While it’s flavorful and satisfying, remember: a little indulgence is perfectly fine when it leads to a fulfilling meal!
Healthier Alternatives
For those watching their sugars or calories, consider these substitutions:
Swap out traditional orzo for whole grain or brown rice or even quinoa for added nutrients.
Use coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free version.
Opt for low-sodium broth to keep your dish heart-healthy.
Choose wild-caught salmon for an even bolder flavor packed with omega-3s.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your dining experience by serving One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo alongside a crisp green salad and a refreshing white wine, perfect for celebrations or cozy meals at home. Consider pairing it with a delightful dessert like lemon bars or a light sorbet to complete the meal and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Common Mistakes
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your delightful dinner shines:
Overbaking the salmon: Keep an eye on the time to prevent the fish from drying out. The salmon should remain flaky and tender.
Texture issues: Stir the orzo occasionally while simmering to avoid clumping or sticking.
Messes in the kitchen: Ensure you have everything prepped before cooking to maintain a tidy workspace, making the cooking process as smooth sailing as the meal will be delicious!
Storing Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Tempting You to Cook It ASAP
Now is the time to experience the harmony of flavors in One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! Whether for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish evokes joy in every bite and creates lasting memories around the table, making it a must-try for all seafood lovers.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish?
Absolutely! This recipe could work well with trout or tilapia.Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute traditional orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative.What if I don’t have shallots?
You can easily replace shallots with a small onion; the flavor will still be delicious!Can I make this dish in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the orzo ahead of time and add the salmon just before serving.How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your orzo some extra kick!
Dive into creating this stunning dish and let your kitchen come alive with the vibrant flavors of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! You won’t regret it—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A breezy dinner featuring seared salmon paired with creamy, lemon-infused orzo for a comforting yet elegant dish.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for the salmon)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter (for the orzo)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small shallot (finely chopped)
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 1/4 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup baby spinach or chopped kale (optional greens)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill (chopped for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Season the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and rub each with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Sear the salmon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Sear salmon fillets skin-side down for 3–4 minutes, flip, and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and toast orzo: Lower heat to medium, add olive oil/butter, sauté garlic and shallots for 1–2 minutes, then add dry orzo, stirring for 1–2 minutes.
- Simmer the orzo: Pour in broth, add lemon zest and juice, stir, and let simmer for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Finish the orzo: Stir in Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if using), and spinach or kale, letting it wilt.
- Return the salmon and serve: Nestle salmon back into the skillet on top of the orzo, cover, and cook on low for 2–3 minutes until fully cooked. Garnish and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
For a lighter meal, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
