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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Enjoy a vibrant and nourishing one-pan dinner with tender salmon fillets cooked to crispy perfection alongside bright, zesty lemon orzo. This easy-to-make recipe combines wholesome ingredients in a single skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon and Seasoning

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets, skin-on
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Orzo and Flavorings

  • 1 cup orzo pasta (gluten-free if preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden. Carefully flip and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful oil in the pan.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Add Orzo: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil in the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the orzo pasta, stirring to coat it well in the oil and lightly toast for enhanced nuttiness.
  3. Add Broth and Lemon: Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook the orzo until tender but slightly firm, about 8-10 minutes. Monitor the liquid and add a splash of water if it begins drying out before the orzo is fully cooked.
  4. Return Salmon and Finish Cooking: Nestle the cooked salmon fillets back on top of the orzo in the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the salmon and let the flavors meld.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Choose skin-on salmon for better texture and to help keep the fillet intact during cooking.
  • Keep extra broth or water nearby as orzo absorbs liquids quickly and may need more to cook fully.
  • Give enough space in the pan to allow salmon skin to crisp rather than steam.
  • Zest the lemon before juicing to maximize citrus flavor.
  • Stir fresh parsley in at the end to retain color and freshness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with 1/4 of orzo
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: one skillet salmon, lemon orzo, easy dinner, quick meal, gluten free, healthy seafood

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