One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Name: One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Isabella

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Discover the ultimate weeknight dinner with our One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. This dish features tender salmon fillets seared to perfection and served alongside zesty lemon orzo, all cooked in a single skillet. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe combines simplicity with vibrant flavors, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

1 small onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

Juice and zest of 1 lemon

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

Prepare the Salmon:

Start by seasoning the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the salmon fillets, skin-side down, for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Orzo:

In the same skillet, melt butter and add the chopped onion. Sauté until softened, about 2 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the orzo, ensuring it is well-coated with the butter.

Add Liquids:

Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook until the orzo is al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and return the salmon to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Finish and Serve:

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the salmon with the lemon orzo immediately for a delightful and nutritious meal.

Serving Tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a touch of freshness by garnishing the dish with freshly chopped parsley, or try other herbs like dill or basil for a unique twist.

Complementary Sides: Serve with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus to complement the rich flavors of the salmon and orzo.

Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the citrusy notes of the lemon orzo and the richness of the salmon.

Family Style: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. This also keeps the dish warm until everyone is ready to eat.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Shelf Life: The dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Stovetop: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the orzo to prevent it from drying out.

Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

Freezing:

While the salmon can be frozen, the orzo may become slightly mushy upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, it’s best to store the salmon and orzo separately.

Freezing Instructions: Place the salmon in a freezer-safe container or bag, and the orzo in a separate container. Both can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Thawing: Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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FAQs:

Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other types of fish like cod, tilapia, or trout. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets to ensure they are cooked through without becoming dry.

What can I use instead of orzo?

If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use other small pasta types like couscous, quinoa, or even rice. Just adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed to achieve the desired texture.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute in place of the regular heavy cream.

How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

You can easily add more vegetables to this dish by stirring in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini when cooking the orzo. These veggies will add color, nutrition, and flavor to the meal.