Description
Creamy lemon parmesan orzo paired with golden seared salmon in one skillet for a cozy, fresh, and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Extra lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Season salmon with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear salmon skin-side down for about 4 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil and garlic to the skillet. Stir for 30 seconds.
- Add orzo and toast lightly for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well.
- Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and spinach until creamy and wilted.
- Return salmon to the skillet and warm for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Top with parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor.
- Add a splash of broth when reheating leftovers to keep the orzo creamy.
- Do not overcook the salmon to keep it tender and flaky.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: one skillet salmon, lemon orzo, creamy salmon pasta, salmon dinner recipe, easy skillet meal