Delicious One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is like a culinary hug, wrapping you in its comforting embrace of zesty lemon and tender salmon. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making your mouth water faster than you can say “dinner’s ready.” With every forkful, you’re treated to a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, leaving you craving more.

Picture this: It’s a busy weeknight, and you’re juggling work, kids, and the eternal question of what to cook for dinner. Suddenly, the thought of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo pops into your head. It’s easy to whip up, and it feels perfect for a cozy family gathering or a romantic dinner. Plus, it gives you that gourmet feel without the hassle—think chef-level skills with minimal effort!

Ingredients for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Salmon Fillets: Look for fresh, skinless salmon fillets for optimal flavor and tenderness.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it!
• Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium vegetable broth for a rich base without overwhelming saltiness.
• Fresh Spinach: A handful of fresh spinach adds color and nutrients; who doesn’t want to feel virtuous?
• Garlic: Fresh garlic will give your dish that aromatic kick—don’t be shy!
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it’s full of flavor and healthy fats.
• Dill: Fresh dill elevates the whole dish with its distinct herbaceous flavor; dried won’t do it justice.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Chop your garlic finely and get your spinach washed. You want everything within reach because we’re going to bust out some serious cooking magic here.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute. Be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic is like that party guest who overstays their welcome.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Add one cup of orzo pasta into the skillet along with two cups of vegetable broth and the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir it up! Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low and letting it simmer for about ten minutes until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid but remains slightly al dente.

Step 4: Add Spinach & Dill

Once your orzo has cooked perfectly, stir in a generous handful of fresh spinach until wilted. Toss in about two tablespoons of chopped fresh dill too—it’s like confetti for your food!

Step 5: Cook the Salmon

Push the orzo mixture aside in the skillet and add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Place your salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin) into the pan. Season them with salt and pepper. Cover them with a lid or foil for about five minutes until they are cooked through.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Now comes my favorite part! Carefully plate everything up by spooning some orzo onto each plate, topping it with salmon fillets. Drizzle any remaining pan juices on top for extra flavor! Don’t forget to garnish with additional dill if you’re feeling fancy.

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to join you at dinner tonight! So grab those forks and dig in—it’s time for some serious flavor enjoyment!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the salmon first to achieve a crispy skin, then cook the lemon orzo in the same skillet while preparing a refreshing sauce. This sequence saves time and enhances flavor, ensuring a delightful meal without the hassle.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap lemon orzo for another grain like quinoa or couscous. Add your favorite veggies like asparagus or spinach for extra nutrition. A sprinkle of herbs or spices can elevate the dish to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture and freshness.

Sometimes, my friends ask me how I whip up this dish so quickly. I tell them it’s all about enjoying every step while keeping things simple—like when I made this for my family at our last Sunday brunch!

FAQs:

What is One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delicious and easy-to-prepare dish that combines tender salmon fillets with flavorful lemon-infused orzo pasta. This recipe uses a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze while delivering rich flavors in every bite. The orzo absorbs the zesty lemon and broth, creating a delightful base for the salmon, which is cooked to perfection.

How long does it take to prepare One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

Preparing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. The quick cooking time makes this dish ideal for busy weeknights. You will spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything together in one skillet. This efficient method ensures you can enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of fish in place of salmon for this recipe. Options like trout or tilapia work well and can provide different flavor profiles. Ensure that you adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish fillets you choose. Just like salmon, these alternatives will pair wonderfully with the lemon orzo, creating a delightful dish.

What can I serve with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You may also consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce from the skillet. A side of roasted asparagus or green beans would add color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the citrus flavors of the dish.

Conclusion for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo:

In summary, One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is an easy yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion. With its bright lemon flavor and tender salmon, it offers a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. Utilizing simple ingredients and one skillet keeps preparation straightforward while ensuring minimal cleanup. Try this recipe today for a delightful dining experience that combines taste and convenience seamlessly.

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that seamlessly combines tender salmon fillets with zesty lemon-infused orzo pasta, all cooked in one skillet. This dish marries bright citrus notes with rich fish flavors, making it perfect for both family dinners and romantic evenings. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a nourishing and visually stunning meal that requires minimal cleanup.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by chopping garlic and washing spinach.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add orzo, vegetable broth, and lemon juice to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until orzo is al dente.
4. Stir in fresh spinach and dill until wilted.
5. Push orzo aside and add more olive oil if necessary. Place salmon skin-side down in the skillet, season with salt and pepper, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes until done.
6. Serve by plating the orzo first, topping with salmon, and drizzling any remaining pan juices on top.

• Author: Emmeline
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with orzo (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute quinoa or couscous for the orzo for added variety. For extra nutrition, incorporate vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers into the dish. Always taste while cooking to adjust seasonings as desired.