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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick, flavorful, and wholesome dinner combining tender salmon, zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and creamy plant-based cheese all cooked in a single pan for easy preparation and cleanup. This dish offers vibrant colors, balanced tastes, and nutritious ingredients perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon and Seasonings

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets, skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent dissolved in 1 teaspoon water

Orzo and Broth

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
  • Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons

Herbs and Cheese

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • ½ cup plant-based cheese, shredded or creamy

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Zest and juice the lemons, mince the garlic, and chop the fresh parsley and dill. Rinse the salmon fillets and pat them dry thoroughly to ensure a crispy sear.
  2. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is crisp. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2 minutes, then transfer to a plate. The salmon will finish cooking later with the orzo.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Toast Orzo: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Add the orzo and toast it lightly for 1 to 2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
  4. Add Broth, Lemon, and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Stir well, scraping any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  5. Simmer and Cook the Orzo: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Nestle the salmon fillets back into the skillet, skin side up this time, among the orzo. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and the salmon is fully cooked.
  6. Finish with Plant-Based Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle the plant-based cheese over the warm orzo and salmon pieces, allowing it to melt slightly. Stir in the chopped parsley and dill along with the natural gelling agent dissolved in water to create a smooth, luscious sauce texture. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Choose fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcook the salmon to keep it tender and flaky.
  • Toast the orzo well to add nuttiness and prevent mushiness.
  • Adjust lemon zest and juice to your preferred brightness.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even and consistent cooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with orzo
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: salmon, lemon orzo, one skillet, quick dinner, plant-based cheese, healthy recipe, fresh herbs, gluten free

Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/one-skillet-salmon-with-lemon-orzo/