One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
A vibrant one-skillet meal that brings together tender salmon and zesty lemon orzo, creating a delicious dinner perfect for any occasion.
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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Notes
Feel free to customize with additional vegetables or herbs. Watch cooking times closely to ensure both orzo and salmon are perfectly cooked.