One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
One skillet salmon with lemon orzo: A quick, easy dinner with pan-seared salmon, lemony orzo, spinach, and Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 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 oz baby spinach
- Juice from ½ lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- Freshly ground black pepper for serving
- Chili flakes for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
- Pat the salmon dry and season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
- Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high in a large nonstick skillet.
- Add salmon, sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Orzo Base
- Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic to the skillet, and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in thyme, remaining salt, and pepper.
- Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
Step 4: Simmer the Orzo
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Lower heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes, until orzo is almost al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
- Add spinach; stir until wilted (~2 minutes).
- Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Add extra broth if needed for a creamy texture. Taste and adjust salt.
- Return the salmon to the skillet and simmer 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes for a little heat.
- Serve hot and savor every bite!