Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Healthy Eating

Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of perfectly seared salmon and the zesty brightness of lemon-infused orzo. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about how this dish has become a staple in many households, celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, the combination of salmon and orzo not only showcases the versatility of these ingredients but also highlights the importance of fresh, wholesome flavors in our meals.

People love Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo for its incredible taste and texture. The crispy skin of the salmon contrasts beautifully with the creamy, lemony orzo, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Additionally, this dish is incredibly convenient, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Join me as we dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to impress your family and friends while delivering a nutritious meal that everyone will adore!

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter

Preparing the Salmon

1. Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear when cooking. 2. Season both sides of the salmon fillets generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. I like to make sure every inch is coated for maximum flavor. 3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke, which indicates it’s hot enough for cooking.

Cooking the Salmon

4. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as they hit the pan. 5. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes without moving them. This allows the skin to get crispy and the fish to cook through. 6. After 4-5 minutes, gently flip the salmon fillets using a spatula. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness. I usually aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). 7. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the orzo.

Preparing the Orzo

8. In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and toast it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This step adds a lovely nutty flavor to the orzo. 9. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Make sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet; they add great flavor! 10. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the orzo simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Adding Flavor to the Orzo

11. After the orzo is cooked, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach. The heat from the orzo will wilt the spinach and warm the tomatoes beautifully. 12. Add the butter and chopped parsley, stirring until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. I love the brightness that the lemon adds to the dish!

Assembling the Dish

13. To serve, spoon a generous portion of the lemon orzo onto each plate. 14. Top with a salmon fillet, skin-side up, to showcase that crispy skin. 15. For an extra touch, drizzle a little more lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with additional parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

16. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. I often serve it with a side of roasted asparagus or a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the salmon. 17. If you have any leftovers, the orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy your Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! It’s a delightful dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

In summary, this Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of perfectly seared salmon, zesty lemon, and creamy orzo creates a delightful dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Plus, it comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze! For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus for a pop of color and crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the orzo by adding in seasonal vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor. I encourage you to give this Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Cooking is all about sharing joy and creativity, and I can’t wait to see how you make this recipe your own! Print