One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Salmon and Seasoning

01 - 4 skinless salmon fillets
02 - 1 tsp salt, divided
03 - 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper, divided
04 - 1 tsp sweet paprika
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder

→ Cooking Base

06 - 1 tbsp olive oil
07 - 1 tsp unsalted butter
08 - 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
09 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
10 - 1 cup dry orzo pasta
11 - 1 tsp dried thyme
12 - 3 cups low sodium chicken broth

→ Final Additions

13 - 5 ounces baby spinach
14 - juice from ½ lemon
15 - ½ cup grated Parmesan
16 - freshly ground black pepper, for serving
17 - chili flakes, for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Grate Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper.
02 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
03 - Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and onion to the skillet, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in dried thyme and the remaining salt and pepper.
04 - Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
05 - Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
06 - Add baby spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and grated Parmesan. Adjust seasoning with more salt, if needed.
07 - Return salmon fillets to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
08 - Top the dish with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving.