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At the heart of this recipe are the salmon fillets, renowned not just for their flavor but also for their impressive nutritional profile. Salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and have been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved brain function and reduced inflammation. Additionally, salmon provides a hefty dose of protein, making it an excellent choice for maintaining muscle health and promoting satiety. When selecting salmon for this dish, opt for wild-caught varieties whenever possible, as they tend to be richer in nutrients and flavor compared to farmed alternatives.

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Discover the ease and flavor of this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe! In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal featuring perfectly cooked salmon, zesty lemon, and tender orzo pasta, all in one pan. With fresh spinach and a hint of garlic, it's a nutritious dinner that's packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to garnish with parsley for that extra touch!

Ingredients
  

2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

1 medium lemon (juiced and zested)

2 cups fresh spinach

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic (minced)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Skillet: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

    Add the Orzo: Pour in the orzo and stir it around for 2-3 minutes to toast slightly. This adds depth of flavor to the dish.

      Add Broth and Lemon: Pour in the vegetable broth, zest of the lemon, and the juice of half the lemon. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

        Incorporate the Spinach: Once boiling, add the spinach and reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir until the spinach is wilted.

          Cook the Salmon: Push the orzo mixture to one side of the skillet and place the salmon fillets on the other side skin-side down. Season the salmon with oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cover the skillet and let the salmon cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

            Finalize the Dish: Once the salmon is cooked, gently flake it into the orzo mixture. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the entire dish and toss to combine.

              Serve and Garnish: Plate the orzo and salmon mixture and garnish with fresh parsley. Sprinkle with a bit more lemon zest if desired. Enjoy your one-skillet meal!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 2 servings