🍋 One Pot Buttery Salmon Rice (Easy 35-Minute Dinner)

One Pot Buttery Salmon Rice is an easy, flavorful weeknight dinner made with tender salmon, buttery rice, garlic, and fresh lemon — all cooked in a single pan. This simple salmon rice recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a healthy, comforting meal with minimal cleanup.

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🕒 Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

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• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Cuisine: American

• Category: Dinner, One-Pot Meals

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🛒 Ingredients for Buttery Salmon Rice

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati), rinsed

• 1¾ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional but recommended)

• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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👩‍🍳 How to Make One Pot Salmon Rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

2. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add rice and stir to coat it in the butter mixture. Toast for 1–2 minutes.

5. Pour in broth and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon zest.

6. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

7. Season salmon lightly with salt and pepper.

8. After 10 minutes, nestle salmon fillets into the rice.

9. Cover and cook for 8–10 more minutes until salmon flakes easily.

10. Finish with lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

 

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⭐ Tips for Perfect Salmon Rice

• Don’t overcook the salmon — it should be just opaque and flaky.

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.

• Add frozen peas or spinach in the last 5 minutes for extra veggies.

• For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving.

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🔁 Recipe Variations

• Spicy Salmon Rice: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil.

• Creamy Version: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or coconut milk.

• Garlic Butter Salmon Rice: Double the garlic and butter.

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or chicken thighs instead of salmon.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover salmon?

Yes! Add cooked salmon during the last 5 minutes just to warm through.

What rice works best?

Jasmine or basmati rice gives the best fluffy texture. Avoid instant rice.

Is salmon rice healthy?

Yes — salmon is rich in omega-3s and protein, making this a balanced, nutritious meal.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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🥗 What to Serve with Salmon Rice

• Simple cucumber salad

• Roasted asparagus or broccoli

• Garlic green beans