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In the world of home cooking, few dishes can boast the delightful combination of convenience, flavor, and health benefits like Zesty One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. This vibrant dish not only brings the freshness of the sea to your table but also engages your senses with its zesty notes and bright colors. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties, this one-skillet meal is designed to simplify your cooking experience while delivering a gourmet taste that will impress your family and friends.

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this Zesty One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! In just 30 minutes, you'll create a deliciously vibrant meal featuring tender salmon fillets nestled in a zesty orzo cooked in garlic, thyme, and fresh cherry tomatoes. Finished with a splash of lemon juice and zest, this dish is not only easy but bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy nights, serve it with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh touch!

Ingredients
  

2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

1 cup orzo pasta

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

    Cook Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and let it toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the chicken broth, cherry tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

      Add Salmon: Reduce the heat to a simmer, and create two small wells in the orzo. Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down into the wells. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

        Finish with Lemon: Once the salmon is done, remove the skillet from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and orzo, and add the lemon zest. Gently stir to combine the flavors.

          Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2