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–+ servings
Two perfectly seared salmon fillets resting on a bed of lemon orzo and wilted spinach in a skillet.

Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo

This recipe details how to prepare seared salmon served over lemon orzo pasta.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 x skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt - divided
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper - divided
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1 x yellow onion - finely chopped
  • 3 x garlic cloves - minced
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • 1/2 x juice from lemon
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 x freshly ground black pepper for serving
  • 1 x chili flakes for serving

Equipment

  • Large nonstick pan or skillet
  • Paper towel

Method
 

  1. Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Add salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and onion. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme and the remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. To maintain a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking, until almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
  5. Add spinach, stir, and simmer until wilted for about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Add more broth, if needed. Taste and adjust salt.
  6. Return salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through.
  7. Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes. Enjoy!

Notes

Prepare your cheese, onion, and garlic before you start cooking the salmon.

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