Description
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe is a delicious and healthy main course that combines perfectly seared salmon fillets with creamy lemon-infused orzo pasta. Prepared entirely on the stovetop in a single skillet, it offers a quick and easy meal packed with fresh flavors from garlic, lemon, and parsley, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 skin-on salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Orzo and Seasonings
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor and ensure a nice crust.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and sear for 3 to 4 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crisp. Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Reduce the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toast the Orzo: Stir the orzo pasta into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to develop a nutty flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish the Orzo: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, and butter. This will make the orzo creamy and add bright citrus tones to the dish.
- Reintroduce Salmon and Cook Through: Place the salmon fillets back on top of the orzo in the skillet. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- To make this dish dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese and butter, or substitute with plant-based alternatives.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the salmon.
- If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional chicken broth or water.
- Be sure to not overcook the salmon when searing; it should remain moist and tender.
- Use skin-on salmon fillets to help keep the fish intact and add crisp texture when seared.
