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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and easy meal featuring perfectly seared salmon paired with bright, lemony orzo in one skillet. This dish is full of flavor, with tender salmon fillets and a creamy, zesty orzo that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, your choice)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes, until lightly toasted.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: While the orzo is toasting, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in another skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet where you cooked the salmon, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Combine with Orzo: Add the toasted orzo to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let the orzo cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.
  5. Serve: Once the orzo is cooked, place the salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Cover and let the salmon heat through for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use Bone-In or Skinless Salmon: Bone-in salmon fillets will provide a crispier skin, but skinless salmon fillets can also work for this recipe.

Vegetable Broth for Lighter Option: For a lighter version of this dish, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orzo mixture.

Herb Variations: You can also add fresh basil or thyme for extra flavor in the orzo.

Nutrition

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