Description
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a vibrant and effortless meal featuring tender, flaky salmon paired with bright, zesty lemon orzo and fresh herbs, all cooked in one pan for easy preparation and cleanup. This flavorful and nutritious dish is perfect for a simple yet impressive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets, skin-on
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
Orzo and Aromatics
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Flavorings
- 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, zest and juice (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Herbs and Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Optional: extra lemon zest for garnish
- Optional: toasted pine nuts for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Heat olive oil (natural) in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then sear skin-side down until the skin is crisp and golden, about 4 minutes. Flip the salmon and cook the other side briefly, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Orzo: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast lightly for about 2 minutes to develop a nutty flavor.
- Add Liquid and Lemon: Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Sprinkle the natural gelling agent over the mixture. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, approximately 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Return Salmon and Finish: Gently place the salmon back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Cover and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flaky. Finish by scattering the freshly chopped parsley and dill over the dish.
Notes
- Use room temperature salmon for even cooking and shorter cook times.
- Preheat your skillet to ensure a crispy sear without sticking.
- Do not overcook the orzo; it should be tender but slightly firm.
- Toast the orzo before adding liquids to deepen the flavor.
- Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve vibrant color and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with orzo
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: salmon, lemon orzo, one skillet, easy dinner, healthy meal, Mediterranean, quick recipe, fresh herbs, weeknight dinner
