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Lemon Basil Salmon with Orzo Skillet

Lemon Basil Salmon with Orzo Skillet
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A quick and easy one-pan meal combining fresh, zesty lemon, aromatic basil, flaky salmon, and tender orzo pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is bursting with vibrant flavors, healthy omega-3s, and requires minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 salmon fillets, skin-on

Pasta and Broth

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Herbs and Citrus

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Aromatics and Seasoning

  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse and pat dry the salmon fillets. Zest and juice the lemon. Finely chop the garlic cloves and roughly chop the fresh basil. Measure the orzo and have the broth ready.
  2. Cook the Orzo: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the orzo and stir frequently until it begins to turn golden. Pour in the broth, cover the skillet, and let the orzo simmer gently for about 10 minutes or until tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  3. Cook the Salmon: Push the orzo to one side of the skillet. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin crisps and the salmon is opaque halfway up the sides. Carefully flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked but still moist.
  4. Combine and Finish: Gently fold in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh basil into the orzo, stirring carefully around the salmon. Add a splash of olive oil if desired for a silky texture. Optionally, stir in cherry tomatoes for added sweetness and color.

Notes

  • Use the freshest salmon for best flavor and tenderness.
  • Watch the orzo closely to avoid overcooking; it should be al dente.
  • Fresh lemon and basil significantly enhance the bright, fresh flavors.
  • Pat salmon dry before cooking to get crispier skin.
  • Maintain medium heat to avoid burning garlic and ensure even salmon cooking.
  • Let salmon rest for a minute off the heat to retain juiciness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon basil salmon, orzo skillet, quick dinner, one-pan meal, healthy salmon recipe, fresh basil recipe, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/lemon-basil-salmon-with-orzo-skillet/