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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a creamy, lemony, and wholesome dinner featuring tender salmon fillets served over garlicky orzo and wilted spinach, all made in a single pan for easy cleanup.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add orzo and stir to coat. Pour in broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and creamy.
  5. Stir in spinach until wilted. Mix in Parmesan cheese if using. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  6. Return salmon to skillet and place on top of the orzo. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
  • Parmesan is optional but adds extra creaminess and depth.
  • For even cooking, let the salmon come to room temperature for 10 minutes before searing.
  • Stir orzo frequently during cooking to avoid sticking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/one-skillet-salmon-with-lemon-orzo/