One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo
Introduction
A delightful dish for salmon lovers
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a spectacularly flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or even a small dinner party. This recipe combines tender, flaky salmon with a bright and creamy lemon orzo, all cooked in one skillet for an easy, hassle-free cleanup. The harmony of flavors from citrus, herbs, and creamy textures truly makes this dish a winner.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
What you’ll need
– Salmon fillets (4 pieces, skinless, about 5 oz/150 g each)
– Orzo (1 cup/200 g)
– Chicken broth (2 cups/500 ml)
– Heavy cream (1/2 cup/125 ml)
– Garlic cloves (4, minced)
– Shallot (1, finely chopped)
– Lemon juice (3 tablespoons)
– Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
– Butter (3 tablespoons)
– Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
– Fresh baby spinach (2 cups/60 g)
– Grated Parmesan (1/2 cup/50 g)
– Fresh parsley (for garnish)
– Salt and black pepper (to taste)
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little spice)
Prep Time
Save time with these simple steps
Preparing this meal is a breeze, taking just about 15 minutes to gather and prepare your ingredients before they turn into a culinary masterpiece. From finely chopping shallots and garlic to zesting and juicing your lemon, each prep task is simple and satisfying.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Quick and perfect for weeknights
With a cook time of just 25 minutes, this dish comes together quickly for a total time of 40 minutes. The recipe yields 4 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or having leftovers for an easy meal the next day.
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe is not just delicious but designed to make your kitchen time stress-free and enjoyable. From its quick prep to the elegant presentation, it’s a meal you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Bon appétit!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Season the salmon fillets on both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Set the seasoned fillets aside while preparing the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Add the dry orzo to the skillet and stir well to coat it in the oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is lightly toasted.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth along with the lemon juice and zest. Stir to combine thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Cook the Orzo
Lower the heat to medium-low and let the orzo cook uncovered for about 9-11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender but still firm. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to prevent sticking. If the orzo absorbs the liquid too quickly, you can add a small amount of water or broth.
Step 6: Add the Cream
Once the orzo is tender, pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7: Sear the Salmon
In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned salmon fillets, skin-side down. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the salmon is golden brown and cooked to your liking. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Step 8: Combine and Finish
Place the cooked salmon fillets on top of the creamy orzo mixture. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish. Let the dish sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the skillet salmon and orzo immediately while warm. Add additional parsley, Parmesan, or lemon wedges as desired for garnish.
Notes
Note 1: Orzo Substitution
If you do not have orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like rice-shaped pasta or even couscous.
Note 2: Salmon Options
You can use skinless salmon fillets if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thinner fillets require slightly less time.
Note 3: Lemon Adjustments
For a more pronounced lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest or juice based on personal preference. Be cautious not to overpower the dish.
Note 4: Customize the Greens
Add fresh spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet when cooking the orzo for additional texture and flavor.
Note 5: Cream Alternatives
If heavy cream is unavailable, half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative can be used to achieve a similar creamy consistency.
Note 6: Cooking Time
Be mindful of the orzo’s cooking time as it can vary depending on the brand. Taste-test for doneness to ensure it is cooked to your liking.
Note 7: Make It Spicy
For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orzo while cooking or top the final dish with chili oil.
Note 8: Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to maintain a creamy texture.
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Cook techniques
Searing the Salmon
To get perfectly seared salmon with a crispy, golden crust and a tender, flaky interior, use a hot skillet and cook the salmon skin-side down first. Sear until golden and flip only once. Avoid overcrowding the pan for an even sear.
Cooking the Orzo
Toast the orzo in the skillet first to enhance its nutty flavor. Then, simmer it gently in a combination of chicken broth and lemon juice for a creamy, flavorful finish. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Creating the Lemon-Butter Sauce
To achieve a silky lemon-butter sauce, reduce the liquid in the skillet after cooking the orzo. This concentrates the flavors and makes the sauce perfectly rich. Add the butter gradually, stirring to fully incorporate it.
Finishing Touches
Add freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten the dish and balance the richness of the sauce. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with trout, cod, or any firm white fish. Adjust the cooking time as needed since other types of fish may cook faster or slower than salmon.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture, but you can prepare the orzo and sauce ahead of time. Reheat gently and cook the salmon just before serving.
What can I replace orzo with?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use rice, couscous, or even small pasta shapes. Adjust the cooking liquid and time based on the alternative grain or pasta.
Can I make it dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and ensure your chicken broth does not contain any dairy products.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works well as a substitute for chicken broth. For a more intense flavor, you can also use a splash of white wine in combination with water.
Conclusion
This One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a fantastic option for a quick and flavorful meal. It’s the perfect balance of creamy orzo, bright lemon, and tender salmon, all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to impress with its delicious combination of textures and flavors.
