One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

This One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful and nutritious meal that combines pan-seared salmon fillets with a zesty lemon-infused orzo pasta. The dish is enhanced with the freshness of spinach and the richness of Parmesan cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe offers a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare the Salmon:

   • Season the salmon fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

   • Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down, and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

   • Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Orzo:

   • In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and chicken broth.

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

   • Cook the orzo for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

3. Add Lemon and Spinach:

   • Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice into the orzo.

   • Add the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.

4. Finish the Dish:

   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the orzo is creamy.

   • Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet, placing them on top of the orzo.

   • Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

   • Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-skillet meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

• Total Fat: 18 g

  • Saturated Fat: 3 g

• Cholesterol: 70 mg

• Sodium: 600 mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 35 g

  • Dietary Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugars: 3 g

• Protein: 35 g