One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, flavor-packed weeknight dinner that’s as easy as it is beautiful, One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is about to be your new go-to. Juicy salmon fillets, melt-in-your-mouth orzo, and a fresh burst of lemon come together in ONE pan—no juggling dishes, no fuss, just a little bit of magic in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is that you barely need a grocery list—just a handful of everyday ingredients that each play an important part in the final dish. The result is a harmony of bright, creamy, and savory flavors!

• Salmon Fillets (skinless): Choosing boneless, skinless fillets means every bite is tender and fuss-free.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Divided for perfectly seasoning both the fish and the orzo base.
• Sweet Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a gorgeous rosy hue to the salmon.
• Garlic Powder: Delivers savory depth to your salmon crust.
• Olive Oil & Unsalted Butter: A dreamy, rich duo for pan-searing and building flavor in the skillet.
• Yellow Onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and aromatic heartiness in the orzo.
• Fresh Garlic: A must for that mouthwatering aroma and depth—don’t skimp here!
• Orzo Pasta: Rice-shaped pasta that soaks up every drop of lemony, cheesy sauce.
• Dried Thyme: Earthy, fragrant, and quietly sophisticated—this gives your orzo an herby boost.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth: The secret to orzo that’s creamy but not stodgy; it infuses everything with flavor.
• Baby Spinach: Quickly wilts into the orzo for a pop of green and sweet, tender texture.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Lifts up all the flavors with zingy, sunny brightness. Squeeze from a real lemon if you can!
• Grated Parmesan: The savory, creamy finishing touch. Freshly grated is always best if you have it!
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper & Chili Flakes: For a final flourish of flavor and a hint of heat at the table.

Variations

Once you’ve made One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo the first time, you’ll see just how easy it is to tweak it! This recipe is ultra-flexible, so feel free to swap ingredients or play with add-ins according to what you love or need.

• Try a different protein: Swap the salmon for shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a twist while keeping the one skillet ease.
• Make it dairy-free: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and a vegan butter for an equally luscious, cheesy finish.
• Add extra veggies: Fold in frozen peas, cherry tomatoes, or chopped bell peppers with the spinach for more color and nutrition.
• Punch up the spice: Toss in a pinch of cayenne or more chili flakes if you like a little heat.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Season the Salmon

Start by patting your salmon fillets dry—this simple move gives you that gorgeous golden crust. Sprinkle both sides generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. That’s all you need to transform grocery store salmon into something truly special.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, carefully lay in the fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side—just enough for a beautiful crust, but still moist inside. Set the salmon aside on a plate; it finishes cooking later so don’t worry if it’s slightly underdone.

Step 3: Build the Orzo Base

Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet’s flavor-rich fond (all those caramelized bits). Cook until soft and golden—about 2 minutes—then stir in dried thyme, a pinch more salt and pepper, and your orzo pasta. Toast the orzo for a minute or two, letting it soak up every drop of flavor from the pan.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Lower the heat just enough to keep a simmer. Let the orzo cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks. After about eight minutes, the orzo will be almost al dente, glossy and plump, with most of the broth absorbed.

Step 5: Wilt Spinach & Add Lemon

Now add the baby spinach and watch it melt into the orzo in just a couple of minutes. Stir in a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice and all that nutty grated Parmesan. If it looks a little thick, splash in a bit more broth—creamy orzo is the goal! Taste and adjust the salt if you wish.

Step 6: Return the Salmon & Serve

Finally, nestle your salmon fillets back into the orzo, letting them simmer for 2–3 minutes until just heated through. Sprinkle with black pepper and chili flakes to serve, and invite everyone to the table while it’s piping hot!

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Garnishes

Sprinkle each serving with fresh dill or parsley, a little extra Parmesan, or finely grated lemon zest. The bright herbs and citrus on top highlight the dish’s flavor, and that final flourish feels fancy with barely any effort.

Side Dishes

Honestly, One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a meal in itself, but if you want to round things out, a simple green salad or roasted asparagus pairs perfectly. For a heartier spread, try warm crusty bread to soak up the last drops of lemony orzo.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party vibe, plate the orzo family-style in a big shallow bowl and nestle the salmon on top, garnished with fresh lemon wheels and herbs. Or serve straight from the skillet for that inviting, rustic look—either way, your table will look like pure Mediterranean sunshine!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the salmon and lemon orzo together (or separately) in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 days and make for the best next-day lunch.

Freezing

Salmon freezes fairly well, but the orzo may get a bit soft after thawing. If you want to freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-friendly containers, and aim to eat within a month for best taste and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo and keep it creamy, or microwave in 30-second bursts. Avoid overcooking the salmon during reheating so it stays juicy—not dry!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo finds a permanent place in your dinner rotation—it’s the kind of meal that’s easy enough for busy nights but feels like a treat every single time. Tag someone you love, light a candle, and enjoy this warm, lemony hug from your kitchen!

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