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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo: Bright, Creamy, and Effortlessly Elegant

Ingredients

Scale

  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt, divided
  • 1 tsp 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 1/2 lemon
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • Freshly ground black pepper, for serving
  • Chili flakes, for serving

Instructions

  1. Grate Parmesan, chop onion, and mince garlic. Pat salmon fillets dry. Season with garlic powder, paprika, and 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper.
  2. In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Sauté onion and garlic until soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme and remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Adjust seasoning and add more broth if needed.
  6. Return salmon to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
  7. Serve with extra pepper and chili flakes.
  • Author: Paula