This Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a tasty and bright dish. The flaky salmon pairs perfectly with zesty lemon orzo, all made in just one pan!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this dish. If you can’t find salmon, try using trout or any firm white fish like cod. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Orzo: This small pasta shape cooks quickly and absorbs flavor well. If you’re out of orzo, you can substitute with any small pasta like rice-shaped pastas, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Using broth adds depth to the dish. If you’re vegetarian or in need of a lighter option, stick with vegetable broth, but homemade broth will yield the best flavor.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully. Bottled juice works in a pinch, but I recommend fresh for the best taste. Don’t forget the zest for added aroma!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds creaminess and flavor. Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be great substitutes for a similar taste.
How Do I Ensure the Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be tricky, but it’s easier than you think! The secret lies in temperature and timing.
- Start with a hot skillet for a crispy skin. Add salmon skin-side down and cook without rushing. This takes about 4-5 minutes.
- Don’t be afraid to flip it over! Cook until there’s just a hint of translucence in the center. It should flake easily with a fork.
- Remove it from heat immediately! Residual heat will continue to cook it. If you’re unsure, using a meat thermometer for an internal temp of 145°F can help.
Trust me; letting it rest for a minute off the heat makes a tasty difference!
How to Make Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes around 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and another 15 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by seasoning the salmon fillets with a good sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides. This seasoning will enhance the salmon’s flavor beautifully!
2. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot oil. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin turns crispy. Then, gently flip the fillets over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step adds lots of flavor to your dish!
4. Add Garlic and Orzo:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for around 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Now, add the orzo pasta, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it. This will give the orzo a lovely flavor!
5. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Bring everything to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Finish the Dish:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, adding a nice creaminess and freshness to the dish. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste.
7. Combine and Serve:
Finally, nestle the cooked salmon fillets back on top of the orzo to warm through for about 1-2 minutes. If you like, garnish with lemon slices and extra parsley before serving. Enjoy straight from the skillet!
Dig into your flavorful, lemony one-skillet salmon with creamy orzo! It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to impress.
FAQ for Easy One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method. Ensure the salmon is dry before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo Pasta?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can swap it with any small pasta, such as ditalini or couscous. For a gluten-free option, consider using quinoa or rice; just keep in mind that cooking times may vary!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and lemon orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the orzo and sauté the vegetables in advance. Store them separately and combine them with the cooked salmon just before serving to ensure everything is warm and flavorful!
