One Pot Salmon and Rice

One Pot Salmon and Rice is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that brings together tender salmon fillets and aromatic rice, all cooked together in a single pot. This dish combines the richness of salmon with the savory depth of seasoned rice, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup with all ingredients cooked in a single pot.
• Flavorful and Nutritious: Combines protein-rich salmon with seasoned rice and vegetables.
• Time-Saving: Ready in under an hour, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different herbs, spices, or vegetables.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both adults and children alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cube chicken bouillon
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1½ cups long grain rice, rinsed
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

this recipe

1. Season the Salmon: Sprinkle seasoning salt over both sides of the salmon fillets.
2. Sear the Salmon: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side to achieve a nice color. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the diced onion and bell peppers, cooking until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet along with the chicken bouillon cube, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir for a couple of minutes to lightly toast the rice.
5. Add Broth and Lemon Zest: Pour in the chicken broth and add the lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine Salmon and Rice: Gently place the seared salmon fillets on top of the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook over low heat for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the salmon is flaky.
7. Finish and Serve: Once cooked, drizzle lemon juice over the salmon and rice. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of paprika or add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
• Herb Substitutions: Use fresh herbs like dill or cilantro instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Rice Options: Substitute long grain rice with jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the rice has dried out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the cooking time and broth quantity accordingly to ensure the rice is fully cooked.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth is a great alternative, especially for a vegetarian version. It provides a similar depth of flavor without using animal products.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dish as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve.

Is it necessary to sear the salmon before adding it to the rice?

Searing the salmon adds flavor and helps maintain its texture, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. Just be aware that the texture may be slightly different.

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) indicates it’s fully cooked.

Can I add other spices to the rice?

Certainly. Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, coriander, or chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely, adding a crisp contrast to the rich flavors.

Can I use skin-on salmon fillets?

Yes, skin-on fillets work well. Searing the skin side first helps it become crispy, and you can choose to remove the skin before serving if desired.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that the chicken broth and seasoning salt used are gluten-free, this dish is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Conclusion

One Pot Salmon and Rice is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with aromatic, seasoned rice. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and the convenience of a one-pot meal that’s sure to impress.

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