Description
A quick and flavorful One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo cooked all in one pan featuring fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and creamy plant-based cheese. This wholesome, vibrant dish combines flaky salmon, tender orzo, and bright citrus notes for an easy meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 fresh salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Orzo and Aromatics
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup plant-based cheese (creamy variety)
- Pinch of natural gelling agent
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then place the salmon skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crisp and the flesh is opaque about halfway up the sides. Flip gently and cook another 2-3 minutes before removing the salmon to a plate.
- Cook the Orzo and Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the orzo pasta and stir to toast lightly. Pour in the vegetable broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Simmer and Add Cheese: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir in the plant-based cheese and a pinch of natural gelling agent, stirring until creamy and smooth.
- Combine and Finish: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them gently into the orzo. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley and dill on top for a fresh finish. Cover briefly for 2 minutes just to warm the salmon through and let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Use firm, fresh salmon fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- Let salmon rest a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- Toast the orzo briefly before adding liquid to deepen its nutty flavor.
- Always use fresh lemon juice for brightness and zing.
- Adjust liquid quantity as needed depending on your broth to ensure perfectly cooked orzo.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with orzo
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: salmon, lemon orzo, one skillet, easy dinner, plant-based cheese, fresh herbs, weeknight meal
