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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and vibrant dinner that combines tender salmon fillets with citrus-infused orzo pasta cooked effortlessly in a single skillet. Bright lemon juice and zest, fresh herbs, and simple wholesome ingredients create a perfectly balanced, flavorful meal ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 fresh boneless salmon fillets
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Lemon Orzo Base

  • 1 cup orzo pasta (gluten-free if desired)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

Instructions

  1. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper. Place the fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4 minutes until a crispy golden crust forms. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes or until just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Lemon Orzo Base: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor. Pour in the vegetable broth combined with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  3. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the orzo cook while absorbing the liquid for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Toward the end, sprinkle in the natural gelling agent to add a subtle, silky thickness to the sauce without heaviness.
  4. Return Salmon and Add Herbs: Nestle the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Cover briefly and let everything warm through for 2-3 minutes. Finish by scattering chopped parsley and dill over the top to infuse fresh herbal brightness.
  5. Final Taste and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve directly from the skillet for easy presentation and minimal cleanup.

Notes

  • Use room temperature salmon fillets for even cooking.
  • Do not overcook the orzo; it should be slightly undercooked before absorbing the final liquid with the salmon.
  • Always use fresh lemon juice and zest to ensure the brightest citrus flavor.
  • Toasting the orzo before cooking enhances its nutty flavor and texture.
  • Monitor liquid levels during cooking, adding more vegetable broth if the orzo looks dry before fully tender.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: salmon, lemon orzo, one skillet meal, quick dinner, fresh herbs, gluten free, easy recipe, healthy dinner

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