Sunshine Salmon Lemon Orzo Skillet
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a bit of sunshine on a plate this winter? Honestly, who doesn't! Today, we're diving into the Best Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon .
It's proper lush, packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make.
Quick Hook
Are you craving a light winter dinner that is also healthy and bursting with flavor? This recipe is your answer.
The creamy lemon orzo perfectly complements the flaky salmon, creating a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant. It's a true Mediterranean salmon recipe !
Brief Overview
This one-pan salmon orzo recipe hails from the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits and delicious simplicity. It's an easy recipe, even if you are not that good at cooking, taking about 40 minutes from start to finish.
The recipe yields four servings, perfect for a family meal or a dinner party with mates. It is also one of my favorite Winter Hearty Meals .
Main Benefits
Salmon is fantastic for you. It's full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are brilliant for your heart and brain. This dish is perfect for a quick easy weeknight salmon dinner or a more fancy occasion.
What makes it special? The creamy, lemony orzo.
Ready to rustle up the ingredients? Let's dive in.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon
Okay, let's talk ingredients for our Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon . Getting these right is key! This One-Pan Salmon Orzo Recipe is all about fresh flavors.
Main Ingredients: Let's Get Specific
- Salmon fillets: Four , each about 6 ounces / 170 grams . Look for bright color and firm flesh. Avoid anything that smells too fishy.
- Olive oil: Two tablespoons / 30 milliliters . Use a good quality extra virgin.
- Sea salt: Half a teaspoon / 2.5 milliliters .
- Black pepper: One-quarter teaspoon / 1.25 milliliters . Freshly ground is best!
- Lemon juice: Three tablespoons / 45 milliliters total. We'll use it in stages.
- Small Onion: One , finely chopped. About Half a cup
- Garlic: Two cloves , minced.
- Orzo pasta: One cup / 200 grams .
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Three cups / 710 milliliters . Low sodium is a good shout.
- Dry white wine: One-quarter cup / 60 milliliters . Optional, but so good . Use something you'd happily drink.
- Heavy cream or crème fraîche: One-quarter cup / 60 milliliters . Makes it extra lush.
- Parmesan cheese: One-quarter cup / 60 milliliters , freshly grated, plus extra for serving.
- Lemon zest: Zest of one lemon .
- Fresh parsley: One-quarter cup / 15 grams , chopped.
Winter Hearty Meals don't have to be complicated. This list proves that.
Seasoning Notes: Amp Up the Flavour
Garlic and lemon zest are the heroes here. The Parmesan adds a savory edge. Want a bit of kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
I sometimes throw in a bay leaf while the orzo simmers for extra depth. For a Mediterranean Salmon Recipe vibe, a pinch of dried oregano works wonders too.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
- A large oven safe skillet . About 12 inches / 30 centimeters is ideal.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- A lemon zester. Essential!
- Tongs. For flipping the salmon.
- Optional Instant read thermometer. Helps to make sure your salmon is cooked right.
- Garlic press (optional)
Honestly, you probably have most of this already. If you don't have an oven safe skillet, just transfer the salmon to a baking dish before popping it in the oven.
Easy peasy!. This Lemon Salmon Pasta Skillet recipe is a breeze.
Sunshine Salmon: Skillet Cooking for the Win!
Fancy something quick, easy and that tastes bloomin' marvelous? This Best Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon ticks all the boxes. Trust me, even if you’re knackered after a long day, you can whip this up in no time.
It’s a proper Light Winter Dinner that feels fancy but is secretly simple.
I remember the first time I made this. Oh my gosh! I slightly burnt the garlic and thought I’d ruined the whole dish.
But honestly, the lemon and salmon completely saved it. Now, it’s one of my go-to Quick Salmon Dinner Ideas .
Prep Like a Pro for Your Lemon Orzo Skillet
- Chop your onion and mince that garlic like a boss.
- Have your orzo, broth, and lemon juice ready to go.
- Pat your salmon dry. This helps it sear properly.
Skillet Salmon step-by-step
- Season salmon with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Sauté onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Add orzo and toast for 2- 3 minutes . Keep stirring!
- Pour in 3 cups broth and simmer for 10- 12 minutes .
- Stir in cream, Parmesan, and lemon zest/juice.
- Sear salmon for 4- 5 minutes skin side down.
- Flip and cook for 2- 3 minutes . It should flake easily!
The internal temp should reach 145° F ( 63° C) .
Insider Secrets for Perfect Best Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon
- Don't overcook the salmon! Seriously, it's the worst. Slightly under is better!
- Toasting the orzo? It adds a nutty flavour that's so worth it.
- For a Winter Hearty Meals option, use crème fraîche instead of cream. It adds a richer tang.
You know, sometimes I'm a bit lazy and make a double batch of the orzo. It’s lovely Creamy Lemon Orzo with Salmon for lunch the next day.
Skip the salmon for a Healthy Meals Pescatarian option; just add some pan-fried halloumi! This One-Pan Salmon Orzo Recipe is a game changer. So, ditch the boring dinners and give this a go.
Recipe Notes to Nailing the Best Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon
Right then, let's get down to brass tacks with some crucial notes for my Sunshine Salmon & Lemon Orzo Skillet.
Honestly, these are the bits I wish I knew the first time I made it. It's all about making sure you get that restaurant quality dish at home without any kitchen disasters.
Plating Like a Pro and Perfect Pairings
Presentation, my friends, is key. Think about piling that creamy orzo high, then nestling the perfectly seared salmon on top.
Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge for a pop of colour. I sometimes even swirl a little extra olive oil on the plate.
A crisp side salad cuts through the richness beautifully something simple with a lemon vinaigrette. And for a tipple? A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon beautifully.
I love Healthy Meals Pescatarian options.
Storage Secrets for Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store the orzo and salmon separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They'll happily keep for up to 2 days.
This Light Winter Dinner is good for the next day!
Freezing isn't ideal for the orzo, as the cream can separate. The salmon can be frozen, but its texture might change slightly.
To reheat, gently warm the orzo in a pan with a splash of broth. Reheat the salmon separately in the oven or skillet to keep it from drying out.
Tweaks and Twists: Variations on a Theme
Fancy a change? You got it! For a Light Winter Meals vibe, swap the salmon for some grilled halloumi. It's a delicious vegetarian option that still brings that salty, savoury goodness.
This recipe is a tasty one-pan salmon orzo recipe.
If you're trying to cut back on dairy, use a plant based cream alternative. Oat cream works a treat. And for a bit of a winter warmer twist, try using butternut squash instead of the peas in the orzo trust me, it's a winner.
Nutrition: The Good Stuff
Okay, so this dish isn't just tasty; it's good for you too! Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain.
The orzo provides some carbs for energy, and the lemon adds a boost of vitamin C.
This Sunshine Salmon & Lemon Orzo Skillet is about 550 calories per serving. That makes it a satisfying and relatively Mediterranean Salmon Recipe .
I love including this meal in my Winter Hearty Meals lineup.
Honestly, give this a go. It’s easier than you think. Plus, having the Best Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon on a cold night, you know? Makes everything a bit better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for this Best Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your salmon is fully thawed before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture this will help it sear beautifully and not steam in the pan. Thawing it in the fridge overnight is the safest bet, but you can also use the cold water method if you're in a rush.
What if I don't have white wine on hand? Can I still make the Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon?
Of course, you can! The white wine adds a lovely depth of flavour, but it's not essential. Simply skip it and add an extra splash (about 1/4 cup) of chicken or vegetable broth when the recipe calls for the wine. A squeeze of extra lemon juice at the end can also help brighten the dish.
How do I store leftovers of the Best Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon and orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of broth or water to the orzo as it can dry out a bit. Be careful not to overcook the salmon when reheating; gentle warming is key!
I'm trying to eat healthier. Are there any ways to lighten up this Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon recipe?
Definitely! You can easily make this dish lighter. Substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant based alternative like oat cream. Also, consider using less Parmesan cheese or opting for a reduced fat version. Lastly, you could swap the orzo for whole wheat orzo to increase the fiber content.
My orzo always seems to stick to the bottom of the pan. Any tips for avoiding this when making the Best Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon?
Sticking orzo is a common kitchen woe! Make sure you are stirring the orzo frequently, especially after adding the broth. Keeping the heat at a gentle simmer and not a rolling boil is also important. A good quality skillet with a thick bottom can also help distribute heat more evenly and prevent sticking.
Sunshine Salmon Lemon Orzo Skillet
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 3g |
