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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

A delightful and quick weeknight meal featuring flaky salmon and creamy lemon orzo, all cooked in one skillet.

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

  1. Prepare the salmon by rubbing the fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
  2. Sauté the onion in olive oil over medium-high heat until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and ½ teaspoon salt, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
  3. Cook the orzo by stirring it in with thyme for about 1 minute. Add chicken broth, bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes.
  4. Add the salmon to the orzo mixture, cover, and cook for another 7-8 minutes until the salmon flakes easily.
  5. Finish the dish by stirring in spinach, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as desired.

Notes

Feel free to substitute salmon with other firm white fish like cod or halibut. This meal is easily adaptable; experiment with different herbs and proteins.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, orzo, one skillet, quick dinner, weeknight meal