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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the ultimate solution for a quick, delicious dinner that the whole family will love. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this all-in-one meal featuring tender pan-seared salmon accompanied by zesty orzo, vibrant spinach, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The bright lemon juice and aromatic garlic elevate the flavors, ensuring that every bite is bursting with freshness. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, this dish offers minimal cleanup and maximum enjoyment—making it a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 tsp black pepper (divided)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • juice from ½ lemon
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
  • chili flakes (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Get your prep done before you start cooking. Grate the Parmesan cheese. Finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add salmon fillets to the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic and onion to the skillet. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme along with remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo to toast for about 1 minute.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally until almost al dente and most liquid is absorbed—about 8 minutes.
  5. Add spinach into the skillet. Stir until wilted—about 2 minutes. Mix in lemon juice and Parmesan. If needed, add more broth; taste and adjust salt if necessary.
  6. Place seared salmon back into the skillet. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  7. Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving hot. Enjoy!

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