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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo dish garnished with lemon slices and herbs

Lemon Orzo Salmon Skillet

A delicious one-pan salmon dish with lemon orzo, baby spinach, and Parmesan, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 4 pieces skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
For the Orzo and Sauce
  • 1 number yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • 0.5 number juice from ½ lemon
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan
  • freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
  • chili flakes (for serving)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Get your prep done before you start cooking: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon salt and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Heat oil and butter over medium-high in a large nonstick pan or skillet.
  2. Add salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and onion. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in thyme and the remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
  6. Add spinach, stir and simmer until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  7. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Add more broth if needed. Taste and adjust salt.
  8. Return salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
  9. Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes. Enjoy!

Notes

Don't crowd the pan to give the salmon space. Listen to your favorite music while cooking for a fun atmosphere.