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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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Flaky salmon fillets nestled in a creamy lemon Parmesan orzo with spinach, all made in one pan in just 30 minutes.

  • Total Time: 30 min
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

4 skinless salmon fillets
1 tsp salt (divided)
1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
1 tsp sweet paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp unsalted butter
1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 cup dry orzo pasta
1 tsp dried thyme
3 cups low sodium chicken broth
5 ounces baby spinach
juice from ½ lemon
½ cup grated hard cheese (like Parmesan)
freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
chili flakes (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Get your prep done before you start cooking: Grate the cheese, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika and ½ teaspoon salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil and butter over medium high in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Add salmon fillets and sear, 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and onion. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme and the remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. To maintain a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking, until almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
  5. Add spinach, stir and simmer until wilted for about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and cheese. Add more broth, if needed. Taste and adjust salt.
  6. Return salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through.
  7. Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For a crispier salmon crust, ensure fillets are patted completely dry before seasoning.
  • The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. Add a splash of extra broth or water when reheating leftovers.
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving maximizes the bright flavor.
  • Author: Max Parker
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 20 min
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: High-Protein

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 salmon fillet & 1 cup orzo mix)
  • Calories: 391 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 959 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g (est.)
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 43 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg (est.)

Find it online: https://freshmealkitchen.com/one-skillet-salmon-with-lemon-orzo/