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Imagine coming home after a long day, hungry and ready to unwind, yet still wanting a meal that's both delicious and nourishing. Enter the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo—a dish that epitomizes simplicity, flavor, and health benefits. This delightful recipe combines perfectly pan-seared salmon with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon-infused orzo, all prepared in just one skillet. Not only does this meal come together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it also offers a satisfying balance of nutrition and taste that will leave you feeling revitalized.

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Discover the ease of one skillet cooking with this delicious Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe. In just 30 minutes, you can create a flavorful meal featuring tender salmon fillets seared to perfection, combined with zesty orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only quick to prepare but offers a bright and healthy option that everyone will love. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges for added freshness!
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Ingredients
  

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium shallot, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

1 cup fresh spinach

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a large skillet, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a little broth in case it’s needed later.

    Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and minced garlic. Sauté until they are fragrant and the shallots are translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

      Prepare the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Push the shallots and garlic to the side of the skillet and place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5 minutes, then carefully flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the salmon is cooked, add the cooked orzo, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Gently toss in the fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, stirring until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften, about 2 minutes. Add a bit of the reserved broth if the mixture seems dry.

          Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Garnish with plenty of fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful one skillet meal!

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4