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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a culinary delight that brings together the rich flavors of salmon, the satisfying texture of orzo pasta, and the refreshing zing of lemon. This dish is perfect for anyone seeking a healthy yet indulgent meal without the hassle of extensive prep work or cleanup. The beauty of one-skillet meals lies in their simplicity; with all ingredients cooked together in a single pan, you can enjoy a delicious dinner while minimizing the time spent on washing dishes.

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Elevate your dinner routine with this delightful One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! This quick and flavorful recipe combines tender salmon, zesty lemon, and creamy orzo pasta all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. With fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes added for color and nutrients, this dish is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Perfect for busy weeknights, enjoy a gourmet meal in just 30 minutes!
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Ingredients
  

2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

1 teaspoon lemon zest

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups fresh spinach

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: Red pepper flakes (for a little heat)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and half of the lemon zest. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.

    Cook the Orzo: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

      Add Broth and Orzo: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the orzo pasta and stir. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

        Incorporate the Salmon: Push the orzo to one side of the skillet, creating a space for the salmon. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and sprinkle with remaining lemon zest. Cover the skillet and allow the salmon to cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until cooked through.

          Add Vegetables: Once the salmon is almost done, add the cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir gently to combine and allow the spinach to wilt.

            Final Touches: Drizzle the remaining lemon juice over the skillet. For a little extra heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if desired. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

              Serve: Remove from heat and let sit for a minute. Serve the lemon orzo topped with the salmon and an optional sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

                Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 2