If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe is your new best friend. This dish brings together tender, perfectly seared salmon nestled against creamy lemon-infused orzo, all cooked in a single pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. It’s the kind of recipe that combines freshness, zest, and comfort, making dinner not only delicious but delightfully simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe hits all the right notes every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this dish shine. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, color, and texture that bring this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe to life.
- 4 skinless salmon fillets: The star of the dish, providing rich, flaky protein that cooks beautifully in the skillet.
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta: A tiny pasta that soaks up the lemony broth and Parmesan for creamy goodness.
- 5 ounces baby spinach: Adds vibrant color and a mild, slightly sweet earthiness that balances the richness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty punch that melts into the orzo for irresistible creaminess.
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the orzo with savory depth without overpowering the salmon.
- Juice from ½ lemon: Brings fresh brightness and a gentle tang that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For searing the salmon and adding a lovely fruity undertone.
- 1 tsp unsalted butter: Helps achieve a golden crust on the salmon and adds richness to the base flavors.
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation to the orzo.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Injects warmth and a gentle kick to round out the savory profile.
- 1 tsp salt (divided): Essential for seasoning both salmon and orzo perfectly.
- 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided): Gives just the right amount of spice and complexity.
- 1 tsp sweet paprika: Adds a smoky, sweet undertone to the salmon seasoning.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes and deepens the flavor harmony.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: A fragrant herb that beautifully complements seafood and brightens the dish.
- Freshly ground black pepper (for serving): A final fresh grind amps up the dish’s flavor when plated.
- Chili flakes (for serving): Optional, for those who want a little heat to balance the lemon’s zing.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a burst of freshness and lovely green color as a finishing touch.
How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by gathering everything together: grate your Parmesan cheese, finely chop the yellow onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Don’t forget to season your salmon fillets with half of the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dried thyme—this seasoning combo really amps up the flavor intensity and ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Step 2: Sear the salmon
Heat your skillet over medium-high and add the olive oil along with the butter—that combo helps create a golden crust while keeping the fish moist. Place your seasoned salmon fillets skinless side down and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned. Once seared, remove them from the skillet carefully to keep that crisp exterior intact.
Step 3: Sauté aromatics
Turn the heat down to medium and add your finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the same skillet, letting them soften and release their fragrance in the flavorful pan drippings. Stir in the dried thyme to wake up the herbs, then toss in the orzo pasta, giving it a quick toast for about a minute; this step adds a lovely nutty aroma and prevents the pasta from sticking later.
Step 4: Cook the orzo
Pour in your low sodium chicken broth, bring it to a gentle boil, and then reduce to a simmer. Let the orzo cook, uncovered, until the liquid has mostly absorbed and the pasta is tender—about 8 minutes. This technique infuses the orzo with that savory broth, laying down a rich base for the creamy finish.
Step 5: Add the spinach and cheese
Stir your baby spinach into the skillet until it wilts gently into the warm orzo, introducing fresh green goodness and a bit of tanginess. Next, pour in the juice of half a lemon and sprinkle your grated Parmesan cheese, stirring everything together for that perfect balance of creaminess and brightness that truly makes this dish sing.
Step 6: Combine salmon and finish cooking
Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them gently on top of your lemon orzo. Let everything cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the salmon to finish cooking through and for the flavors to meld harmoniously. Your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe is now ready to wow!
How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish, scatter fresh parsley over the top to add a touch of herbal brightness and vibrant green color. A few twists of freshly ground black pepper bring a peppery kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy orzo. If you enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes will add a fantastic warmth that plays nicely against the lemon tang.
Side Dishes
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe is hearty on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, light and crisp side salads with a vinaigrette work perfectly. Roasted or steamed asparagus or green beans also complement the dish wonderfully, offering a crunchy contrast to the tender fish and creamy orzo.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salmon fillets perched atop the lemon orzo on elegant white plates to highlight the vibrant colors. For a casual vibe, scoop everything onto rustic wooden boards or in shallow bowls and pass around family-style. Adding lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to add extra zest as they prefer, personalizing the dish beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the salmon and orzo together to preserve the flavor but be sure to consume within this time frame to enjoy the best texture and taste.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not optimal due to the delicate texture of the salmon and the creaminess of the Parmesan orzo, which can change after thawing. If needed, freeze portions individually in freezer-safe containers for up to one month, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to avoid drying out the salmon. To keep the orzo creamy, add a splash of broth or water while warming. Stir occasionally until heated through and enjoy that fresh taste again!
FAQs
Can I use salmon with skin on for this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe?
Absolutely! Skin-on salmon can add extra flavor and texture if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking time slightly and crisp the skin well on the skillet.
Is it okay to substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works just fine and makes the recipe suitable for a pescatarian diet while still providing a rich, savory base for cooking the orzo.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, skip the Parmesan and butter, or substitute with vegan cheese and olive oil. The lemon juice and herbs will keep the dish flavorful without compromising texture.
How can I tell when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
Look for salmon that flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque center. The initial searing and finishing in the skillet should keep it moist and tender.
Can I add other vegetables to the orzo?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in peas, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition. Just add them at the appropriate cooking stages to keep textures balanced.
Final Thoughts
If you love meals that come together quickly but feel like a special occasion, this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe is your ticket to dinner success. It’s a perfect blend of fresh, creamy, and vibrant flavors that make every bite satisfying and comforting. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it, and make it a favorite in your kitchen as much as I have in mine!
Print
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delicious, quick, and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender salmon fillets are seared to golden perfection, then combined with creamy, lemony orzo pasta and fresh baby spinach, all cooked together in a single skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasonings
- 4 skinless salmon fillets
- 1 tsp salt (divided)
- 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Orzo and Vegetables
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Fats
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- Juice from ½ lemon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp unsalted butter
Cheese and Garnishes
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, for serving
- Chili flakes, for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, mince the garlic cloves, and season the salmon fillets with half of the salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and garlic powder evenly on both sides.
- Sear the salmon: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil and unsalted butter. Once hot, add the salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in the dried thyme, then add the orzo pasta and toast it by stirring for 1 minute.
- Cook orzo: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid and is tender, approximately 8 minutes.
- Add spinach and finish sauce: Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted. Mix in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
- Combine salmon and serve: Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet on top of the orzo. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat the salmon and meld flavors. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper, chili flakes, and chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Using low sodium chicken broth helps control the salt content in the dish.
- To ensure salmon cooks evenly, pat dry with paper towels before seasoning.
- If you prefer, you can substitute baby spinach with baby kale or arugula.
- Adjust chili flakes to taste for desired spice level.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the salmon.
