One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a dinnertime game-changer—a luscious, flavor-packed meal that comes together fast, leaves almost no cleanup, and looks as if it came from your favorite neighborhood bistro. Bright lemon, velvety Parmesan, and tender spinach swirl together with orzo, while perfectly seared salmon basks on top, ready to steal the show.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo comes from its humble, wholesome ingredients—each one essential for incredible flavor and satisfying texture. With just a handful of pantry staples and a couple of fresh stars, you’ll create a meal that tastes like a treat.

• Skinless salmon fillets: The hero of the dish; opt for center-cut for even cooking and a buttery bite.
• Salt and black pepper: Enhances every ingredient from the salmon to the orzo.
• Sweet paprika: Adds delicate warmth and gorgeous color to the salmon crust.
• Garlic powder: Boosts the savory flavor without extra chopping.
• Olive oil and unsalted butter: A classic duo for golden searing and a hint of richness in the base.
• Yellow onion: Offers subtle sweetness and body to the creamy orzo.
• Garlic cloves: Aromatic and essential for that restaurant-like depth of flavor.
• Dry orzo pasta: Looks like plump rice but delivers satisfying “bite” and drinks up every drop of broth.
• Dried thyme: A gentle herbal note to complement the lemon and Parmesan.
• Low sodium chicken broth: The key to savory, creamy orzo—use homemade or a quality boxed broth for best results.
• Baby spinach: Adds a nutritious, vibrant green finish.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish and highlights the salmon beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, creamy, nutty goodness to the finished meal.
• Freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes (optional): Add a burst of heat and a final flourish on top.

Variations

The real fun of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is how endlessly adaptable it is! Feel free to play with swaps and add-ins based on what you have at home, dietary needs, or just to keep things exciting from week to week.

• Swap the Protein: Try shrimp, chicken breast, or even tofu if you’re out of salmon or want to mix it up.
• Add More Veggies: Stir in halved cherry tomatoes, asparagus tips, or peas for extra color and crunch.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free orzo or small pasta, and adjust the broth as needed.
• Cheese Lovers’ Twist: Fold in crumbled feta or a spoonful of cream cheese for even creamier orzo.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prep and Season the Salmon

Start by grating the Parmesan, finely chopping the onion, and mincing your garlic—having everything ready is your ticket to a smooth cooking flow. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season them on both sides with the garlic powder, paprika, and half the salt and pepper, giving them a gorgeous, flavorful coating.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

In a large nonstick pan or skillet over medium-high heat, melt together the olive oil and butter. Add the salmon and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s golden with opaque edges but still tender in the middle. Remove the fillets and set aside—they’ll finish cooking later and stay juicy!

Step 3: Build the Orzo Base

Lower the heat to medium and stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until soft and fragrant. Sprinkle in the thyme and the remaining salt and pepper, then stir in the orzo to toast it for one minute—it’ll start to smell nutty and delicious.

Step 4: Simmer and Wilt the Greens

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally (especially at the bottom of the skillet) so nothing sticks. After about 8 minutes, when most of the broth is absorbed and the orzo is almost al dente, stir in the spinach until just wilted.

Step 5: Add the Lemon and Cheese

Squeeze over the fresh lemon juice and stir in the grated Parmesan, letting it melt into the orzo for creaminess and tang. Taste and add a splash more broth or seasoning if you like—this is your moment to make the orzo perfectly glossy and flavorful.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Return the salmon to the skillet and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, just until heated through. Top generously with freshly ground black pepper and a sprinkle of chili flakes for color and a hint of heat. Gather everyone around, because dinner is ready!

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Garnishes

Add an extra flourish by topping the salmon and orzo with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a handful of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or dill), and a final dusting of chili flakes for color and gentle heat. A few paper-thin lemon slices scattered on top make it look truly special.

Side Dishes

This dish is a star on its own, but if you’re looking for something extra, serve alongside a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon, or some roasted asparagus for more green goodness. A crusty baguette is always welcome for scooping up every last cheesy, lemony bite of orzo!

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, divvy the orzo onto individual plates and top each with a salmon fillet—finish with a twist of black pepper and microgreens. Or bring the skillet right to the table (showing off its rustic charm) and let everyone serve themselves family-style—so inviting and convivial!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers from your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The orzo may continue to absorb liquid, so add a splash of broth before reheating to keep it creamy.

Freezing

While the creamy orzo is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions of the cooked salmon separately for up to a month. The orzo itself can be frozen, but keep in mind the texture may soften after thawing—still tasty for a quick lunch!

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of chicken broth or water to loosen the orzo. Warm the salmon separately or nestled on top—just don’t overdo it, so the fish stays tender and moist.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a simple, stunning dinner that doesn’t skimp on comfort or flavor, One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is calling your name. Truly, nothing beats gathering around a pan bubbling with lemony orzo and gorgeous salmon fillets—so grab your skillet and make tonight extra special!

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