Description
A delightful one-skillet dish featuring tender salmon, zesty lemon, and hearty orzo, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 4 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
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- Juice from ½ lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
- Chili flakes (for serving)
Instructions
- Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half of the salt and pepper.
- In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add seasoned salmon fillets and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme and remaining salt and pepper.
- Add orzo to the pan and toast for about 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until orzo is nearly al dente and most liquid is absorbed, approximately 8 minutes.
- Stir in baby spinach until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add lemon juice and grated Parmesan. Adjust consistency with more broth if needed and taste for seasoning.
- Nestle salmon back into the skillet and let simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Finish with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes to taste.
- Serve and enjoy your delightful creation!
Notes
Feel free to substitute quinoa for orzo for a gluten-free option, or use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean