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Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo: A Quick Cozy Dinner Delight

This Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo combines zesty lemon and tender salmon for a quick and flavorful dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 4 fillets Skinless Salmon Ensure freshness for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Use sea salt for better taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Coarsely Ground Black Pepper Freshly ground enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Adds sweetness and color.
For the Orzo Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for searing.
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter Adds richness.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Chopped.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Pasta Absorbs flavors well.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Provides earthy depth.
  • 2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Essential for cooking the orzo.
  • 4 cups Baby Spinach Adds color and nutrients.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Brings creaminess to the dish.
For Serving
  • to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper Finishing touch.
  • to taste Chili Flakes Optional for heat.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by patting the skinless salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Chop onion and mince garlic.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden-brown. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and sauté onion and garlic in the same skillet for about 2 minutes until translucent.
  4. Add dry orzo pasta, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toast the orzo for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower heat, cover, and simmer for approximately 8 minutes until most liquid is absorbed and orzo is al dente.
  6. Stir in spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until wilted. Mix in the juice of half a lemon and Parmesan.
  7. Return the seared salmon to the skillet and let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  8. Before serving, top with additional black pepper and chili flakes, if desired. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Always use fresh salmon for best results and avoid overcooking.

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