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Lemon Basil Salmon with Orzo Skillet

Lemon Basil Salmon with Orzo Skillet
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Lemon Basil Salmon with Orzo Skillet is a quick, vibrant, and easy one-pan meal featuring tender salmon fillets paired with fragrant fresh basil, zesty lemon, and creamy orzo pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant casual entertaining, delivering fresh flavors, nutritious balance, and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (fresh or thawed, skin-on or off, about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Parmesan cheese or ricotta, for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes or smoked paprika, for spice
  • Fresh basil leaves, lemon wedges, toasted pine nuts, or extra virgin olive oil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Zest and juice the lemon, mince the garlic, chop the basil, and season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Have all ingredients within reach to streamline cooking.
  2. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down if applicable, cook for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy, then flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through. Remove salmon and set aside.
  3. Cook the Aromatics and Orzo: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add orzo and toast lightly 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat with oil. Pour in broth, bring to simmer, and cook until orzo is tender and liquid mostly absorbed (8-10 minutes).
  4. Add Fresh Flavors: Stir in lemon juice, zest, chopped basil, and optional cherry tomatoes. Gently toss to combine and meld flavors in the warm orzo base.
  5. Return Salmon and Serve: Place seared salmon fillets atop the orzo. Warm through for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat. Garnish as desired before serving.

Notes

  • Let salmon come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure even searing.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook salmon in batches if needed for the best crust.
  • Use fresh basil rather than dried for superior aroma and flavor.
  • Slightly undercook the orzo in broth to avoid mushiness later.
  • Add lemon juice gradually to balance acidity without overpowering the dish.
  • Leftovers keep well in an airtight container refrigerated up to 2 days.
  • Freeze portions separately if possible, using freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

Nutrition

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

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