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–+ servings

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

A delightful dish that combines tender, pan-seared salmon with zesty lemon orzo, perfectly complemented by fresh spinach and Parmesan.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets skinless salmon Fresh salmon offers rich flavor and healthy fats.
  • 1 tsp salt Divided, enhances the overall taste of the dish.
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper Divided, adds a nice kick to the salmon.
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika Provides warmth and color to the dish.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Infuses the meal with aromatic goodness.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Essential for sautéing and adds heart-healthy fats.
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter Gives richness to the sauce and enhances flavor profile.
  • 1 medium yellow onion Finely chopped, sweetness balances out flavors.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced, brings bold flavor to the recipe.
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta The star ingredient that makes this dish hearty.
  • 1 tsp dried thyme Aromatic herb that complements both salmon and orzo.
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth Acts as the cooking liquid, infusing flavors into the orzo.
  • 5 ounces baby spinach Adds nutritional value and vibrant color.
  • 1/2 lemon juice Brightens up the flavors of the entire meal.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Creaminess adds depth and richness to the sauce.
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper Enhances flavor just before serving.
  • to taste chili flakes Optional spicy kick for those who crave heat.

Method
 

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients together to ensure an efficient cooking process. Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves in advance. Pat each salmon fillet dry and season with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half a teaspoon of salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the Salmon Fillets: Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned salmon fillets, searing for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, retaining residual oil. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  4. Toast Orzo in Seasonings: Stir in dried thyme and remaining salt and pepper, then add dry orzo pasta, toasting for about one minute while stirring continuously.
  5. Cook Orzo Until Tender: Slowly pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until most liquid is absorbed, about eight minutes.
  6. Finish Off Your Dish: Fold in fresh spinach until wilted, then add lemon juice and grated Parmesan, mixing thoroughly. Adjust consistency with more broth if needed, then return seared salmon to skillet to warm through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

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