Let me tell you, one skillet salmon with lemon orzo is a game changer for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have a ton of time to spare. It’s all about simplicity and flavor! The tender salmon pairs perfectly with the bright, zesty orzo that’s infused with lemon, creating a meal that feels both comforting and refreshing. Plus, the fact that it all cooks in one pan means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each, skinless if preferred)
- 1 cup packed orzo pasta (this little pasta is like tiny rice and absorbs all that lemony goodness)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer a heartier flavor)
- 1 large lemon (juiced and zested for that bright, fresh flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin if you want to go fancy)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced for a lovely aromatic boost)
- Salt to taste (I usually go for a good pinch)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is the best!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color and freshness on top)
How to Prepare One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
First things first, let’s get that skillet sizzling! Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. You want it hot enough that the oil shimmers but not so much that it starts smoking. This step is crucial because it sets the stage for perfectly cooked salmon!
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
While the skillet is heating up, season your 2 salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is ready, gently place the salmon in the skillet. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and has a lovely golden-brown crust. Oops, don’t forget to set the salmon aside on a plate when it’s finished; we’ll come back to it later!
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Now, in that same skillet (we love the flavor that lingers), add your minced garlic. Sauté it for just 1 minute until it’s fragrant—trust me, the smell is divine! Keep an eye on it, though; we don’t want it to burn. That would be a bummer!
Step 4: Prepare the Orzo
Next up, let’s add the star of the show: the orzo! Stir in 1 cup of packed orzo pasta and let it mingle with the garlic for about 2 minutes. Then, pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and the juice from that gorgeous lemon. Bring everything to a boil—this is where the magic starts to happen!
Step 5: Simmer
Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10-12 minutes. You want the orzo to soak up that delicious broth and become tender. Give it a stir occasionally and make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the skillet. You’ll be rewarded with tender, flavorful orzo!
Step 6: Final Touches
Alright, we’re almost there! Stir in the lemon zest for that extra zing and season with more salt and pepper if needed. Now, return the salmon to the skillet and let it warm through for just a minute. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. You’ll be left with a beautiful, vibrant dish that tastes as good as it looks!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Healthy and low-fat, perfect for a nutritious dinner.
- Flavorful lemon orzo pairs beautifully with tender salmon.
- All cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Great for busy weeknights or impressing guests!
Tips for Success
To really nail this one skillet salmon with lemon orzo, always go for fresh salmon if you can—it makes a world of difference in flavor and texture! Don’t hesitate to adjust the lemon juice to your liking; some days you might want it extra zesty! Also, keep an eye on the orzo while it simmers; stirring occasionally helps it cook evenly and prevents sticking. Trust me, it’s worth the little extra effort!
Nutritional Information
This one skillet salmon with lemon orzo is not only delicious but also nutritious! Each serving is estimated to contain around 450 calories, with 20g of fat, 30g of protein, and 45g of carbohydrates. Remember, these figures are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and measurements used. Enjoy this healthy meal guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! While salmon is rich and flavorful, you can substitute it with other fish like trout or tilapia. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different fish will have varying cooking requirements.
What can I serve with one skillet salmon and lemon orzo?
This dish is already a complete meal, but if you want to bulk it up, consider serving a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the orzo ahead of time, but I recommend cooking the salmon fresh for the best texture. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge and reheated gently on the stove.
Is this dish gluten-free?
No, traditional orzo is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn, so just check the label when shopping!
How can I enhance the flavor of the orzo?
For an extra flavor punch, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese or a splash of white wine to the broth while it simmers. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can also elevate the dish beautifully!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which is rare but can happen!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. Enjoy!
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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo: 30-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
One skillet salmon with lemon orzo is a simple and delicious meal that combines tender salmon fillets with flavorful lemon-infused orzo pasta, all cooked in one pan.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Add salmon to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Remove salmon and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add orzo and stir for 2 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and lemon juice. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Stir in lemon zest and season with salt and pepper.
- Return salmon to the skillet. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for best flavor.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste.
- Cook orzo al dente for better texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one skillet salmon, lemon orzo, quick meal, healthy dinner
