One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the kind of dinner that feels special but comes together in just 30 minutes. You get perfectly seared salmon, creamy lemony orzo, tender spinach, and nutty Parmesan all cooked in one pan. As a result, you enjoy bold flavor without a sink full of dishes.
If you need a reliable weeknight meal that tastes restaurant-worthy, One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo delivers every time. It feels light yet satisfying. It looks impressive yet stays simple. Most importantly, it brings everyone to the table fast.
A few months ago, I found myself staring at salmon fillets in the fridge after a long workday. I wanted something cozy but not heavy. Instead of roasting the fish separately, I decided to cook everything in one skillet. As the orzo simmered in broth and absorbed all the flavor from the pan, the kitchen filled with the scent of lemon and garlic. When I returned the salmon to the skillet, dinner looked beautiful and tasted even better. Since then, this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo has stayed in regular rotation.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season salmon with salt, pepper, paprika and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet. Sear salmon 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Cook onion and garlic in the same skillet until soft.
- Add thyme and orzo. Toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in broth. Simmer uncovered about 8 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
- Stir in spinach, lemon juice and Parmesan.
- Return salmon to skillet and simmer 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
A Complete Meal in One Pan
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo solves the classic dinner dilemma. You want protein, grains, and vegetables. However, you don't want to juggle three separate pots.
This recipe handles everything in a single skillet. First, you sear the salmon until golden. Then you cook the orzo in the same pan, allowing it to absorb all the flavorful bits left behind. As the pasta simmers, it releases starch, which creates a naturally creamy texture without heavy cream.
Meanwhile, spinach adds color and freshness. Parmesan melts into the orzo, creating richness. Finally, lemon juice brightens the entire dish. Because everything cooks together, the flavors meld beautifully.
Light Yet Satisfying
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo tastes indulgent but feels balanced. Salmon provides protein and healthy fats. Orzo adds comfort without overwhelming the dish. Spinach keeps it fresh.
Moreover, lemon juice cuts through the richness. As a result, each bite feels vibrant and bright. Even though the meal feels hearty, it leaves room for dessert.
This balance makes the dish perfect for both busy weeknights and casual dinner parties.
Ingredients That Make This Dish Shine
The Salmon
For the best One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, use salmon fillets that are similar in size and thickness. This ensures even cooking.
Season the salmon simply with:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Sweet paprika
- Garlic powder
These spices enhance the fish without overpowering it. Additionally, searing the salmon in a mixture of olive oil and butter boosts both flavor and browning.
You can use skinless fillets or skin-on. If you choose skin-on, simply sear skin-side down first for crisp texture.
The Lemon Orzo Base
The orzo transforms this dish from simple salmon to a complete meal.
Key ingredients include:
- Finely chopped yellow onion
- Fresh garlic
- Dried thyme
- Low-sodium chicken broth
- Baby spinach
- Fresh lemon juice
- Grated Parmesan
Orzo cooks similarly to risotto in this recipe. Although you don't need constant stirring, the starch still creates a glossy, creamy finish. As the broth reduces, it blends with Parmesan and lemon juice to form a silky sauce.
If you prefer, you can substitute vegetable broth for a slightly lighter flavor. Either way, One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo remains deeply satisfying.
How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Step 1: Sear the Salmon
Start by patting the salmon dry. Then season both sides evenly.
Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet. Once hot, add the salmon. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The exterior should turn golden and slightly crisp.
Remove the salmon and set it aside. Don't wipe the pan. Those browned bits add incredible flavor to the orzo.
Step 2: Build the Orzo
Reduce the heat to medium. Add chopped onion and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until soft and fragrant.
Next, stir in dried thyme and remaining seasoning. Add the orzo and toast it for about one minute. This step enhances flavor and texture.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo should become tender while most of the liquid absorbs.
If the mixture looks too soupy, simply simmer a bit longer. If it appears dry, add a splash of broth.
Step 3: Finish the Dish
Once the orzo nears al dente, stir in baby spinach. It will wilt quickly. Then add fresh lemon juice and grated Parmesan.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The flavors should feel bright and savory.
Return the salmon to the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
Finish with freshly ground black pepper and optional chili flakes. Serve immediately.
Tips, Variations, and Storage
Helpful Tips for Success
- Start with 2½ cups of broth if you prefer a thicker consistency. Add more only if needed.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan to avoid grainy texture.
- Do not overcook the salmon during the initial sear. It will finish cooking later.
- Stir occasionally to prevent orzo from sticking.
These simple adjustments help ensure perfect One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo every time.
Easy Variations
You can easily customize One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo:
- Substitute shrimp or chicken for salmon.
- Add broccoli florets or green peas instead of spinach.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine before adding broth.
- Add lemon zest for extra citrus flavor.
Each variation keeps the spirit of the dish while offering something new.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if the orzo thickens too much. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Because One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo contains delicate fish, reheating slowly prevents dryness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking for best results.
Why did my orzo turn out soupy?
Different brands absorb liquid differently. Simply simmer longer to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
Can I substitute quinoa for orzo?
Yes. However, adjust broth amounts and follow quinoa cooking times for best texture.
What size salmon fillets work best?
Six-ounce fillets cook evenly and match the nutritional values provided.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prepare it earlier in the day and gently reheat before serving. Add a splash of broth to refresh the texture.
Conclusion
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo proves that weeknight dinners can feel both effortless and impressive. With tender salmon, creamy orzo, bright lemon, and savory Parmesan, this dish delivers bold flavor in just one pan.
Because it cooks quickly and cleans up easily, it fits perfectly into busy schedules. Yet thanks to its vibrant presentation and balanced taste, it also works beautifully for guests.
Once you try One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, you'll find yourself returning to it again and again.
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