Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo


  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dinner featuring tender salmon paired with zesty lemon-infused orzo, smoky turkey bacon, fresh herbs, and creamy plant-based cheese. This simple, colorful skillet meal offers a delightful balance of textures and vibrant flavors, perfect for easy weeknight dining.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets, skin-on
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
  • 1/2 cup creamy plant-based cheese
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the salmon: Pat salmon dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until crispy, then carefully flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove salmon from skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the smoked turkey bacon and garlic: In the same skillet, add chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until crispy. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Toast the orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to coat in the bacon fat and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes to toast slightly, enhancing its nutty flavor and texture.
  4. Add liquids and simmer: Pour in vegetable broth, lemon juice, and a splash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  5. Finish with herbs and cheese: Stir in chopped fresh parsley, dill, lemon zest, and creamy plant-based cheese until the orzo is rich and velvety. Return the salmon to the skillet to warm through gently for about 2 minutes.

Notes

  • Check salmon doneness: The fish should flake easily with a fork but still be moist inside.
  • Use fresh lemon: Fresh zest and juice give a bright flavor you can’t replicate with bottled lemon.
  • Toast the orzo well: This small step adds incredible depth and keeps the texture from becoming mushy.
  • Rest after cooking: Let the salmon rest a minute before serving to retain juiciness.
  • Adjust liquid as needed: Depending on your broth, you may need a splash more to ensure the orzo cooks perfectly.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: salmon, lemon orzo, one skillet, quick dinner, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, healthy meal, fresh herbs