One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines vibrant flavors with simple cooking techniques? Look no further than One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. This recipe is a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. The best part? It all comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Salmon is known for its rich, buttery texture and its health benefits, while orzo—a rice-shaped pasta—provides a tender, creamy base that’s perfect for absorbing flavors. When paired with the bright, zesty notes of lemon, this dish becomes a refreshing and wholesome option that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

• Vegetables: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.
• Herbs: Fresh dill or basil can add a different flavor profile.
• Cheese: Substitute Parmesan with feta for a Mediterranean twist.

Equipment and Tools

Essential Tools for Cooking

• A large, heavy skillet with a lid
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• A zester or microplane for lemon zest (optional)

Additional Tools for Best Results

• A fish spatula for easy flipping of the salmon
• A small whisk for blending the lemon juice and broth

Preparing the Salmon

Choosing the Right Salmon Fillets

When selecting salmon for this recipe, opt for fillets that are fresh and evenly sized. Skin-on fillets are ideal because they help keep the fish moist and add extra flavor when seared. You can use wild-caught or farmed salmon based on your preference and availability.

How to Season the Salmon

1. Season Generously: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle the fillets with a pinch of paprika or smoked paprika.
2. Let it Sit: Allow the salmon to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. This helps the fish cook more evenly.

Cooking the Orzo

What Is Orzo and How to Cook It

Orzo is a type of pasta that resembles large grains of rice. It’s quick to cook and has a creamy texture, making it perfect for one-pan dishes like this. Cooking orzo in broth rather than water adds depth of flavor and makes the dish more savory.

Infusing Flavor with Lemon and Herbs

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
2. Cook the Orzo: Stir in the orzo, allowing it to lightly toast in the oil for 1-2 minutes. This adds a nutty flavor to the pasta.
3. Add Broth and Lemon: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

One Skillet Cooking Process

The Benefits of One-Pan Meals

One-pan meals are not only convenient, but they also allow the flavors of the ingredients to meld together, creating a dish that’s more cohesive and flavorful. By cooking everything in one skillet, you save time on both cooking and cleaning, making this recipe perfect for busy nights.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results

1. Cook the Orzo: Once the broth is simmering, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the orzo cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
2. Prepare the Salmon: While the orzo is cooking, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets, skin-side down, for 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
3. Combine: Once the orzo is almost done, nestle the seared salmon fillets into the skillet with the orzo. Top with thinly sliced lemon and cover the skillet again, cooking for an additional 5 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through.

Adding the Salmon to the Skillet

Searing the Salmon for a Crispy Exterior

Searing the salmon before adding it to the skillet with the orzo is key to achieving a crispy, flavorful exterior. The high heat locks in the salmon’s natural juices, ensuring that the inside remains tender and moist.

Cooking the Salmon to Perfection

When adding the seared salmon to the skillet, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows the heat to circulate evenly, cooking the salmon just right. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.

Finishing the Lemon Orzo

Stirring in the Lemon and Fresh Herbs

Before serving, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley into the orzo. The cheese adds creaminess, while the herbs and lemon juice bring brightness and a pop of fresh flavor to the dish.

Achieving the Perfect Creamy Texture

If the orzo seems too dry, add a splash of broth or a squeeze of lemon juice to loosen it up. The final dish should be creamy, not soupy, with each grain of orzo perfectly cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Side Dishes

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make excellent sides.
• Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the salmon and orzo.

Beverage Pairings

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the citrusy notes of the dish.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea with a slice of lemon is refreshing and complementary.

Recipe Variations

Adding Vegetables for Extra Flavor

For a more complete meal, add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus directly to the skillet with the orzo. They’ll cook alongside the pasta, absorbing the delicious lemony broth.

Substituting Salmon with Other Proteins

If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can substitute it with other proteins like chicken breast, shrimp, or even tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through.

Health Benefits

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. It’s also a great source of high-quality protein, B vitamins, and antioxidants like astaxanthin, which can reduce inflammation and support skin health.

Health Benefits of Lemon and Orzo

Lemon is an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and improves skin health. Orzo, being a type of pasta, provides a good amount of carbohydrates for energy, and when made with whole wheat, it adds fiber to your diet.

Storage and Reheating

Proper Storage of Leftovers

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing it to prevent condensation, which can make the orzo mushy.

Best Practices for Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the skillet to loosen up the orzo, then warm over medium heat until the salmon is heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the salmon rubbery.

Tips for Success

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Salmon: Keep an eye on the salmon as it cooks to avoid drying it out. It should be flaky but still moist.
• Underseasoning the Orzo: Since orzo absorbs a lot of flavor, make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as you cook.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orzo while it cooks. You can also drizzle a bit of honey over the salmon before serving for a sweet contrast to the lemon.

Conclusion

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness. Give it a try and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!

Yield: 4

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

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Are you looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines vibrant flavors with simple cooking techniques? Look no further than One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. This recipe is a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can come together to create a meal that's both satisfying and impressive. The best part? It all comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Salmon:
• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon
• For the Lemon Orzo:
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon:
   Season the salmon fillets with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
   
2. Sear the Salmon:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the skin is crispy and the flesh is golden brown.
   Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through but still moist. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Cook the Orzo:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
   Stir in the orzo pasta, toasting it lightly for 2 minutes.
   Add the chicken broth, water, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook the orzo for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
   
4. Combine and Finish:
   Stir the butter into the cooked orzo, adding salt and black pepper to taste. Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo.
   Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the salmon to reheat and absorb some of the lemony flavors.
   
5. Serve:
   Garnish the dish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve the salmon fillets over the lemon orzo, spooning any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top.

Notes

Orzo Variations: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking.

Salmon Substitutes: Other types of fish, like cod or trout, can be used in place of salmon.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo moist.

Lemon: For extra lemon flavor, you can add an additional tablespoon of lemon juice when serving.