Description
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a flavorful and nutritious dish that brings together perfectly pan-seared salmon, zesty lemon orzo, and fresh spinach—all cooked in one skillet for minimal cleanup. In just 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. The creamy orzo, enriched with Parmesan cheese and brightened with lemon juice, pairs beautifully with the tender salmon. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and vitamins, making it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a quick and healthy dinner.
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 Parmesan
- freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
- chili flakes (for serving)
Instructions
- Season the salmon fillets with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a nonstick skillet. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant. Add thyme and remaining seasoning.
- Toast the orzo in the skillet for about 1 minute before adding chicken broth. Bring to a boil then simmer uncovered for about 8 minutes until liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in baby spinach until wilted, then add lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
- Return the salmon to the skillet and simmer gently for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot with black pepper and chili flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 455
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg