This easy one-skillet salmon recipe is both tasty and simple. The salmon cooks perfectly alongside flavorful lemon orzo, making it a quick dinner favorite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is key for this dish. If you don’t have fresh fillets, frozen salmon will work too—just make sure to thaw it completely first. I also enjoy using skin-on salmon for a bit more flavor and texture.
Orzo: This small pasta is perfect for soaking up the flavors. If you don’t have orzo, feel free to substitute with any small pasta like couscous or even rice. Quinoa can work well for a gluten-free option.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version. I prefer low-sodium options to control the saltiness of the dish.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is fantastic in this recipe, but you can use kale or Swiss chard if that’s what you have on hand. Just chop it up to fit well in the dish.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest really brighten up the flavors. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can substitute, but the zest won’t be as potent.
How Do I Get the Salmon Just Right?
Getting perfectly cooked salmon can be tricky, but a few tips can help. Start by preheating your skillet properly to ensure a good sear, which locks in moisture and flavor.
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper before placing it in the hot skillet.
- Sear on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a golden crust.
- Don’t overcook! Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still looks a bit translucent in the center.
Letting the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after cooking helps keep it juicy. Trust me, these techniques will elevate your dish!
Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the ingredients, followed by about 20 minutes of cooking time in one skillet! It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by seasoning the salmon fillets generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This step enhances the flavor of the fish and helps create a nice crust when cooked.
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo to the skillet with the garlic and lightly toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This step adds a nice nutty flavor to the orzo.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Stir in Flavor:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine all the flavors.
7. Add Spinach:
Next, add the fresh spinach to the orzo and gently fold it in until it wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds a lovely color and nutrition to the dish.
8. Combine Salmon and Orzo:
Carefully nestle the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Cover the skillet and let everything warm together for about 2-3 minutes.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if you like. This adds a lovely finishing touch!
10. Enjoy!
Serve immediately, spooning the lemony orzo and wilted spinach alongside each salmon fillet. Enjoy this bright, creamy, and wholesome meal that’s full of flavor!
FAQ for Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. For quick thawing, submerge the sealed salmon fillets in cold water for about 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even rice can work well in this recipe. If using rice, adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just ensure they are chopped fairly small, and add them at the same time as the spinach so they cook through properly.
