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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Creamy One-Skillet Salmon

This Creamy One-Skillet Salmon features pan-seared salmon fillets nestled over creamy lemon-Parmesan orzo and wilted spinach—all cooked in one pan. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to serve guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt – divided
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper – divided
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion – finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves – minced
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • Juice from ½ lemon
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • Freshly ground black pepper – for serving
  • Chili flakes – for serving

Method
 

  1. Prep all ingredients: chop onion, mince garlic, grate Parmesan, and pat salmon dry.
  2. Season salmon with paprika, garlic powder, and half of the salt and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Sear salmon 3–4 minutes per side. Set aside.
  5. Lower heat, sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes.
  6. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/creamy-one-skillet-salmon/

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth to make it pescatarian-friendly.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms with the onion for more texture.
  • If you like it extra creamy, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.