One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo – Absolute Dinner MVP!

Okay, let’s get real for a second. Have you ever had one of those days where you’re just like, “Ugh, I can’t even”? You know, when you want something tasty but can’t deal with a mountain of dishes afterwards? SAME. That’s why I’m obsessed with this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver!

Main dish photo — *The finished dish — looks amazing, right?*

Okay, Let’s Talk Ingredients

Alright, picture this: I’m at the grocery store, and I’ve got my list, but of course, I’m still getting distracted (ooo, chocolate covered almonds… anyway). So, here’s what you need to grab:

– 4 skinless salmon fillets – super important, trust me.
– 1 tsp salt – divided, don’t forget that part.
– 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper – also divided.
– 1 tsp sweet paprika – makes everything pretty.
– 1 tsp garlic powder – garlic lovers, rejoice!
– 1 tbsp olive oil – for that sizzle.
– 1 tsp unsalted butter – because why not?
– 1 yellow onion – finely chopped, like it’s having a rough day.
– 3 garlic cloves – minced, more garlic = more happiness.
– 1 cup dry orzo pasta – tiny pasta, big flavor!
– 1 tsp dried thyme – or whatever herb makes you feel fancy.
– 3 cups low sodium chicken broth – essential for pasta goodness.
– 5 ounces baby spinach – gotta add those greens in, right?
– Juice from ½ lemon – that zing!
– ½ cup grated Parmesan – YES, please.
– Freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes for serving – spice it up however you like!

So Here’s Why I Make This Constantly

Okay, so here’s the deal. I first made this during one of those “I’m too tired to cook” weeks. I had some salmon in the freezer and thought, “Let’s wing it!” I was kind of a hot mess (as usual) but guess what? It turned out DELICIOUS. Like, I was basically dancing in my kitchen when I tasted it.

Now, it’s a total weekly staple because it’s quick, it’s easy, and my best friend is always like “Are we having the salmon orzo thing again?!” So yeah, it’s got my friend’s seal of approval too. Plus, it’s just so colorful and bright—like a party on a plate!

Another beautiful angle of the dish — *Just as gorgeous from this angle too!*

The One Trick That Changes Everything

Listen up, this is crucial: TOAST the orzo before adding the broth. Just give it a minute in the pan, and it amps up the flavor SO much. It’s like giving your pasta a little spa day! Seriously, don’t skip it.

Don’t Mess This Up (My Top Tips)

– Overcooking salmon is a crime. Just don’t do it! 3-4 minutes on each side is perfect; it’ll keep it flaky and juicy.
– Stir that orzo and broth while it’s cooking! If you don’t, it’ll stick to the bottom like a clingy friend.
– Don’t skimp on the lemon juice! Seriously, it’s the whole vibe.
– If it feels too dry at any point, add a splash of broth. You can never go wrong!

How to Keep Them From Disappearing (Or, How to Store Them)

If you somehow have leftovers (which is a miracle), just pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last a couple of days, but honestly, they might disappear before then. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to get that creaminess back!

If You Liked This, You’ll Probably Like These Too

Okay, if this salmon orzo speaks to your soul, you might wanna try:
– One-Pan Chicken Alfredo – creamy and dreamy!
– Veggie Stir-Fry with Rice Noodles – super quick and colorful.
– Spinach & Feta Stuffed Chicken – fancy but easy!

Alright, now I wanna know—what’s your go-to quick meal when you’re feeling lazy, but you still wanna eat something delish? Hit me up! 🍽️✨

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. This one-pan dish features succulent pan-seared salmon paired with zesty lemon orzo, fresh spinach, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s a wholesome, delicious meal that brings joy to the dinner table without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Author: XXXXX
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: European

Ingredients

Scale

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 cheese

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Instructions

Season salmon fillets with garlic powder, paprika, and half of the salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Lower heat to medium; sauté onion and garlic until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Stir in thyme, remaining salt and pepper, then add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
Pour chicken broth into the skillet; bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is nearly al dente.
Fold in spinach and simmer until wilted (about 2 minutes). Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan; adjust seasoning if needed.
Return salmon to skillet; warm through for another 2-3 minutes.
Serve topped with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes.