One Skillet Salmon Orzo (Printable Version)

Seared salmon paired with lemony orzo, spinach, and Parmesan—all in one pan, ready in 30 minutes.

# Ingredients:

→ Fish

01 - 4 center-cut fresh salmon fillets, skin removed

→ Spices and Seasonings

02 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
04 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
05 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

→ Pasta and Grains

06 - 180 grams dry orzo pasta

→ Vegetables

07 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 100 grams fresh spinach leaves

→ Liquids

10 - 720 milliliters chicken broth
11 - 30 milliliters fresh lemon juice
12 - 15 milliliters olive oil
13 - 15 grams unsalted butter

→ Dairy

14 - 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese

# Steps:

01 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper, pressing the spices into the flesh for optimal adherence.
02 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon fillets skinless side down and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip and sear for an additional 3-4 minutes until nearly cooked through. Remove the salmon and tent loosely with foil.
03 - Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onions to the same skillet, stirring to scrape up browned bits. Sauté until softened and translucent, approximately 2 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in dried thyme, salt, and pepper to infuse flavors.
04 - Add dry orzo to the skillet and stir constantly for 1 minute to toast. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
05 - Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add lemon juice and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and creates a creamy consistency. Adjust texture with additional broth as needed.
06 - Nestle salmon fillets back into the orzo mixture and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until salmon is fully heated and cooked through. Adjust seasoning before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Patting the salmon dry before seasoning ensures a crisp, golden sear and prevents sticking.
02 - Stir orzo frequently while cooking to avoid sticking and burning.
03 - For additional richness, drizzle with quality olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs just before serving.

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