One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

why make this recipe

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a fantastic meal that combines delicious flavors with simple preparation. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s quick, healthy, and uses just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The blend of tender salmon, zesty lemon, and creamy orzo creates a comforting meal the whole family will love.

how to make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Ingredients

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 tsp salt (divided)
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• Juice from ½ lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• Chili flakes (for serving)

Directions

1. Get your prep done before you start cooking: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika and ½ teaspoon salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil and butter over medium-high in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Add salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and onion. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme and the remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. To maintain a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking, until almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
5. Add spinach, stir and simmer until wilted for about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Add more broth if needed. Taste and adjust salt.
6. Return salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through.
7. Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes. Enjoy!

how to serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo hot straight from the skillet. You can garnish it with extra chili flakes and freshly ground black pepper for an added kick. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!

how to store One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a little broth to loosen the orzo as it may thicken when stored.

tips to make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

1. Make sure to season the salmon well before cooking for the best flavor.
2. Stir the orzo regularly while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
3. If you want more lemon flavor, add more lemon juice or even some lemon zest before serving.

variation

Feel free to swap the salmon for another fish, such as trout or cod. You can also experiment with different vegetables like cherry tomatoes or asparagus, which can be added for extra color and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking.

What can I use instead of orzo?

If you don’t have orzo, try using other small pasta shapes like couscous, or you can even use quinoa for a gluten-free option.

Is this dish healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from the salmon, and the addition of spinach and orzo provides essential nutrients. It can be part of a balanced diet.

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Enjoy a quick and flavorful meal with this one-skillet wonder featuring perfectly cooked salmon fillets nestled atop creamy lemon orzo, all made in a single pan for easy cleanup.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 fillets Salmon Fillets skin-on or off
• 1 cup Orzo Pasta uncooked
• 4 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth
• 1 large Lemon zested and juiced
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 4 cups Fresh Spinach packed
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Dried Dill or fresh parsley

Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula

Method

 

Preparation

1. Season salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Sear salmon skin-side down for 3-4 minutes until crispy, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes before removing and setting aside.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
5. Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta, cooking for 1 minute until it is lightly toasted.
6. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is almost tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Nestle the seared salmon fillets back into the almost-cooked orzo mixture.
8. Continue cooking for another 5-8 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
9. Stir in the fresh spinach, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until the spinach has wilted completely.
10. Serve the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo immediately, garnished with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end when adding the spinach.