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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

  • Author: Anthony
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free orzo or substitute is used)

Description

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful one-pan dinner combining tender, crispy-skinned salmon with zesty lemon orzo pasta and fresh vegetables. This healthy, hearty meal is quick to make, packed with omega-3 rich salmon, fresh herbs, and nutritious greens, perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets, skin-on

Orzo and Broth

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups spinach or baby kale
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), 1 tbsp plus splash for seasoning salmon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Oils and Fats

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season lightly with salt, pepper, and a splash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the salmon skin-side down until crisp and golden, about 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté aromatics and veggies: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Add chopped onions and garlic and cook until fragrant and translucent. Stir in cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the greens wilt and tomatoes soften slightly, creating a flavorful vegetable base.
  3. Cook the orzo: Add dry orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with oil and vegetables. Pour in vegetable broth, natural gelling agent, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until orzo is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Combine everything: Nestle the salmon fillets back into the skillet atop the cooked orzo and vegetables. Cover and warm together for a couple of minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley and dill to enhance the lemony freshness.

Notes

  • Make sure skillet and oil are hot before adding salmon to get crispy skin.
  • Let cooked salmon rest briefly after searing for juiciness.
  • Add extra vegetable broth if orzo absorbs too quickly to avoid dryness.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to preserve vibrant color and flavor.
  • Use natural gelling agent carefully to achieve ideal orzo texture without mushiness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with orzo and vegetables
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: salmon, one skillet, lemon orzo, quick dinner, healthy, weeknight meal, fresh herbs, vegetable broth

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