This one-skillet salmon dish is a quick and tasty meal! The salmon is cooked to perfection and served with zesty lemon orzo for a bright flavor.
You’ll love how easy it is to clean up afterward—just one pan! I often toss in some veggies for extra color and crunch. Who knew healthy could be so simple? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh, don’t worry—frozen fillets work too! Just make sure to defrost them before cooking. I love wild-caught salmon for its flavor and texture.
Orzo pasta: Orzo is great for its small size and quick cooking time. If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with other small pasta like couscous, quinoa, or even small rice noodles.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds a nice touch of color and nutrition. If you don’t have spinach, you could use kale or Swiss chard, adjusting cooking time as needed since they may take a bit longer to wilt.
Chicken or vegetable broth: Low-sodium broth keeps this dish flavorful without overwhelming saltiness. If you want a lighter option, you can use water instead, but add a bit more seasoning to balance it out.
How Do You Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked without Overcooking?
Cooking salmon perfectly is key! A few tips help you achieve that flaky texture:
- Heat the skillet well and add olive oil before placing the salmon in. This creates a nice sear.
- Cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a golden crust, and don’t flip it too soon!
- Use a fork to check for doneness—you want it to flake easily yet still be a bit translucent in the center.
Rest the salmon for a minute after cooking. It continues to cook slightly off the heat!
Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, giving you a total of around 30 minutes to dinner! It’s a quick and simple way to enjoy a healthy meal without a lot of fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This adds great flavor to the fish!
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, gently place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are nice and golden and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet where you cooked the salmon, add minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but not browned, so keep an eye on it!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir for 1-2 minutes. This light toasting gives the pasta a nice flavor.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and turn up the heat to 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. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Add Flavor and Spinach:
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh spinach, butter, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Let it cook until the spinach wilts and the butter melts, which should take just a couple of minutes.
7. Combine Salmon and Orzo:
Carefully return the salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Heat everything together for another 1-2 minutes to warm up the salmon.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely garnish. Serve this delicious one-skillet dish immediately, and enjoy your meal!
FAQ: Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Substitute the Orzo Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or even small rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for those alternatives!
What Type of Salmon Should I Use?
Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use frozen ones. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep the orzo moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! This dish is versatile, and you can definitely add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they cook thoroughly during the simmering stage with the orzo.
