Experience the vibrant flavors of a delightful one-skillet meal that brings together tender salmon and zesty lemon orzo, all cooked harmoniously in one pan. This dish streamlines your cooking process while delivering a delicious dinner fit for any occasion, whether weeknight or weekend. The bright notes from the lemon and the heartiness of the orzo create a balanced plate that leaves you feeling satisfied without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Why We Love This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
You’ll love this one-skillet salmon with lemon orzo for many reasons. First, it combines simplicity with elegance, making it perfect for either a family meal or a more intimate gathering. The method is straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the cooking process rather than feeling overwhelmed. The salmon cooks to perfection, remaining moist while absorbing all the flavors from the garlic, lemon, and herbs. The orzo provides a satisfying base that soaks up all the delicious juices from the salmon, creating a cohesive dish that feels complete.
Moreover, this dish is packed with nutrients. Salmon is renowned for its omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for heart health. Pairing it with the whole grains in orzo adds an extra layer of essential nutrients and fiber to your meal. You can also easily incorporate seasonal vegetables, making it a versatile choice year-round. Whether you’re aiming to impress your dinner guests or simply enjoy a weeknight meal with your family, this dish ensures a tasty and wholesome dining experience.
Ingredients for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- 4 salmon fillets, skin-on
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional: 1 cup spinach or kale, roughly chopped
Directions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring it with the onions and garlic for about 2 minutes. This helps to toast the orzo slightly, enhancing its flavor.
Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you use cherry tomatoes or spinach, add them halfway through the cooking time.
While the orzo cooks, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In another skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving it, allowing the skin to crisp up.
Flip the salmon fillets carefully, then squeeze lemon juice over them. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Once the orzo cooking is finished, submerge the salmon fillets on top of the orzo mixture in the skillet. Cover for another couple of minutes so the flavors meld together.
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Serving one-skillet salmon with lemon orzo is straightforward and pleasing to the eye. Start by plating the orzo mixture as the base on each plate, ensuring it has absorbed the delicious lemony broth. Place the salmon fillet gently on top, allowing the skin to be visible for an appealing presentation.
Garnishing the dish adds a burst of color and freshness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or finely chopped green onion brightens the plate and provides a fresh aroma. For a touch of zest, consider additional lemon wedges on the side; this way, diners can enhance the lemon flavor to their liking.
You can also complement your meal with a fresh side salad or light vegetable dish, such as steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli, to add texture and additional nutrition. The combination of flavors from the lemon orzo and savory salmon creates a satisfying meal that feels nourishing and indulgent at the same time.
Expert Tips for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
To ensure your one-skillet salmon with lemon orzo turns out perfectly, consider these expert tips. First, the quality of your salmon matters. Look for fresh, firm fillets that have vibrant coloring. If possible, opt for sustainably sourced salmon to support responsible fishing practices and enhance your cooking experience.
Another important tip is to watch the cooking time for both the orzo and salmon carefully. Overcooking the salmon can lead to a dry texture, while undercooking the orzo can leave it too chewy. Use an instant-read thermometer for the salmon fillets; they should reach an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed while cooking. Adding salt and pepper to your individual taste enhances flavors, making it more enjoyable. Also, feel free to customize your dish. Adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or even artichokes boosts the nutrition and adds wonderful texture.
Lastly, place emphasis on presentation. A well-plated dish is more appetizing. The vibrant colors of the salmon against the lemony orzo and fresh herbs create an inviting meal. Even simple touches like a lemon wedge or sprig of herb elevate the visual appeal.
How to Store One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Storing your one-skillet salmon with lemon orzo properly ensures you can enjoy leftovers without sacrificing quality. Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss, which can lead to dry food.
Place the salmon pieces and orzo in separate containers if possible, as the flavors and textures can meld together in a way that may not be enjoyable for leftovers. In the refrigerator, your meal can last up to three days. If you wish to keep it for longer, consider freezing the dish.
When freezing, ensure that the dish is stored in a freezer-safe container or vacuum-sealed bag. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen meal, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Variations of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
There are numerous variations of one-skillet salmon with lemon orzo that can cater to personal tastes or dietary needs. One popular option is to switch out the orzo for quinoa or brown rice, which offer different textures and nutritional profiles. Both substitutes provide a hearty base while adding their unique flavors.
If you want to pack in more vegetables, consider adding zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. These vegetables can be sautéed along with the onion and garlic at the beginning of the recipe to infuse their flavor into the orzo.
For an extra zing, incorporate different herbs or spices. Dill and basil work wonderfully with salmon and can be used in place of thyme for a fragrant addition. If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish quite nicely.
If you’re looking for a different protein, you might try using chicken breast. Adjust the cooking times accordingly, ensuring it reaches the appropriate internal temperature for safety. This dish is highly adaptable, allowing you to personalize it according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
FAQ about One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
What type of salmon is best for one-skillet salmon with lemon orzo?
For this dish, opt for fresh salmon fillets like Atlantic, sockeye, or coho. These varieties are widely available and provide rich, delicious flavor and texture.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon can work well. Just ensure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Keep in mind the cooking time may need slight adjustment based on the thickness of the fillets.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The best way to check salmon doneness is by using an instant-read thermometer. The fillets should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep many components in advance. Cook the orzo and veggies beforehand and reheat them when you’re ready to add the salmon. This method helps speed up dinner and allows for a fresh meal without looking like you spent all day in the kitchen.
What can I substitute for orzo?
You can substitute orzo with any small pasta or grain, such as quinoa, farro, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking times and liquid amounts accordingly to fit the new ingredients.
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces salmon fillets, skin-on Fresh fillets recommended
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth Can substitute with chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Plus more for cooking salmon
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust according to preference
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Optional for added flavor
- 1 cup spinach or kale, roughly chopped Optional for nutrition
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Cooking Orzo
- Add orzo to the skillet, stirring with onions and garlic for 2 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth, add lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until orzo is al dente, stirring occasionally.
- If using, add cherry tomatoes or spinach halfway through the cooking time.
Cooking Salmon
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- In another skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes.
- Flip salmon carefully, squeeze lemon juice over it, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
Assembly
- Once orzo is finished cooking, submerge salmon fillets on top of the orzo mixture in the skillet.
- Cover and let flavors meld for another couple of minutes.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
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