Description
A quick and easy one-skillet meal featuring tender salmon fillets baked over lemon-infused orzo pasta with fresh herbs, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the salmon fillets dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Drizzle with a little olive oil.
- In a large (at least 12-inch) oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the orzo to the skillet and toast lightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and stir well to loosen any orzo sticking to the bottom.
- Arrange the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the orzo in the skillet. Place a few thin lemon slices over and around the salmon.
- Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily, and the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender. (Internal temperature for salmon should be 145°F/63°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, and frozen peas (if using) into the orzo around the salmon.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the orzo to finish absorbing any remaining liquid.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh lemon slices and an optional sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version (though salmon makes it pescatarian).
- Ensure the skillet is oven-safe; if not, transfer to a baking dish.
- Frozen peas add color and nutrition but can be omitted for a simpler dish.
- Parmesan is optional and can be skipped for dairy-free.