The Best One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe Ever

Weeknight dinners demand quick, delectable solutions that don’t compromise on flavor or elegance.

This one skillet salmon with lemon orzo recipe delivers a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes.

Fresh salmon fillets nestle perfectly atop a bed of creamy, zesty orzo, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

The bright lemon notes dance through each bite, cutting through the rich salmon with a vibrant freshness.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction make this dish a weeknight champion.

Sea salt, fresh herbs, and a splash of white wine elevate this simple yet sophisticated meal.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this Mediterranean-inspired culinary delight.

Why One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo Stands Out

• Streamline your cooking with this salmon and orzo dish that requires minimal cleanup and uses just a single skillet for the entire meal.
• Combine protein-rich salmon with nutrient-dense spinach and zesty herbs, creating a balanced and delicious dinner that supports healthy eating goals.
• Achieve professional-level cooking with simple techniques like searing salmon and toasting orzo, delivering gourmet taste without complicated steps.
• Adaptable for different taste preferences, this recipe works perfectly for family dinners, date nights, or casual gatherings with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Skillet Salmon Orzo

• Salmon Fillets: Rich, tender fish that serves as the star protein of this one-skillet meal.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Provide smooth, rich flavor and help create a perfect sear for the salmon.

• Garlic, Onion: Foundational ingredients that build a deep, savory base for the dish.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder, Sweet Paprika: Add warm, complex depth to the salmon's seasoning.

• Fresh Thyme: Introduces a subtle, earthy herb note to complement the fish.
• Chili Flakes, Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Offer optional heat and finishing zest.

• Orzo: Small pasta that creates a creamy, comforting base for the salmon.

• Broth: Provides moisture and additional flavor while cooking the orzo.

• Spinach: Adds nutritious green color and soft texture to the dish.
• Lemon Juice: Brings fresh, citrusy brightness to balance the rich salmon.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish to the orzo and enhances overall richness.

Tools to Cook Salmon With Orzo Like a Pro

• Large Nonstick Skillet or Pan: Essential for searing salmon and cooking orzo evenly and without sticking.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring orzo and preventing it from burning.
• Cheese Grater: Helps create fresh, fluffy Parmesan cheese for the dish.
• Cutting Board: Provides a clean surface for chopping onions and garlic.
• Sharp Chef's Knife: Needed for finely chopping onions and mincing garlic.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensures precise seasoning with salt, pepper, and spices.
• Paper Towels: Used to pat salmon dry before seasoning.

Cooking Salmon & Orzo: Steps to Follow

Step 1: Prepare Protein and Seasonings

Get your salmon fillets ready by patting them completely dry with a paper towel.

Sprinkle both sides generously with garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper to create a delicious flavor profile.

Step 2: Sizzle the Salmon

Heat a combination of oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

Carefully place salmon fillets into the hot pan and cook until a beautiful golden crust forms, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Transfer the salmon to a temporary plate.

Step 3: Build Flavor Base

Lower the skillet’s heat to medium.

• Minced garlic
• Chopped onions

Cook until the aromatics become soft and release their enticing fragrance, which takes around 2 minutes.

Sprinkle in thyme and remaining seasonings.

Add orzo and toast for a quick minute to enhance its nutty flavor.

Step 4: Create Creamy Orzo

Pour broth into the skillet and bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking until orzo becomes nearly tender and most liquid is absorbed, approximately 8 minutes.

Step 5: Introduce Fresh Elements

Fold in fresh spinach and let it wilt beautifully into the orzo.

Splash some bright lemon juice and sprinkle Parmesan cheese.

Add extra broth if the mixture seems dry.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Reunite Salmon with Orzo

Carefully return salmon fillets to the skillet, allowing them to warm through for 2-3 minutes.

The fish will absorb the surrounding flavors while gently reheating.

Step 7: Final Flourish

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and a dash of chili flakes for an extra kick.

Serve immediately while hot and aromatic.

Tips for the Juiciest Skillet Salmon & Orzo

• Use a meat thermometer to check salmon's internal temperature reaches 145°F for perfect doneness without drying out the fish.
• Toast orzo before adding liquid to enhance its nutty taste and create a richer, more complex flavor profile.
• Add fresh lemon zest along with juice to intensify citrus notes and provide a more vibrant, aromatic element to the dish.
• Replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard for different nutrients and texture, ensuring the dish remains nutritionally balanced.
• Select skin-on salmon fillets for extra moisture and crispy texture when searing, which helps maintain the fish's natural succulence.

Orzo & Salmon: Tasty Variations to Explore

• Mediterranean Salmon Orzo: Replace spinach with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and add kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired version. Use oregano instead of thyme for authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Gluten-Free Quinoa Swap: Substitute orzo with quinoa for a gluten-free alternative. Use gluten-free broth and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for celiac-friendly meal.
• Dairy-Free Omega Boost: Omit Parmesan cheese and replace with nutritional yeast for similar cheesy flavor. Use coconut oil instead of butter to keep the recipe completely dairy-free.
• Spicy Cajun Salmon Orzo: Add Cajun seasoning to salmon instead of garlic powder and paprika. Include diced bell peppers during the sauté stage for extra heat and color.

Salmon Orzo Serving Ideas for Any Table

• Flavor Burst Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or dill over the salmon for a bright, herbal pop that elevates the dish's freshness and adds beautiful green color.
• Mediterranean Plate Pairing: Serve alongside a crisp Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and olives to complement the lemony salmon and create a balanced Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Wine and Dine Companion: Pour a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that matches the dish's light, zesty flavors and cuts through the richness of the salmon.
• Texture Enhancer: Scatter toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds on top for a delightful crunch that adds nutty depth and contrasts with the tender salmon and creamy orzo.

How to Store and Reheat Skillet Salmon Orzo

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth.
• Carefully transfer salmon and orzo to a freezer-safe container. Seal tightly and freeze for maximum 2 months. Avoid freezing dishes with fresh spinach for best texture.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add 1-2 tablespoons of broth or water to prevent drying. Cover with microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with cod, halibut, or sea bass. Just adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, orzo contains wheat. For a gluten-free option, replace orzo with quinoa or rice.

• Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace salmon with firm tofu or plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

• How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The flesh should be opaque and slightly pink in the center.

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

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4.7 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Delectable one skillet salmon with lemon orzo brings Mediterranean flavors to dinner tables with effortless elegance. Creamy pasta and perfectly seared fish create a harmonious meal you’ll savor in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 5 ounces baby spinach

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Freshly ground black pepper, for serving
• Chili flakes, for serving

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice from 1/2 lemon
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

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Instructions

1. Prepare a clean workspace and gather all ingredients. Grate Parmesan cheese, finely chop onion, and mince garlic cloves. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towel and season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper.

1. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and butter, creating a sizzling surface. Carefully place seasoned salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer salmon to a plate and set aside.

1. Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until translucent and aromatic, approximately 2 minutes. Incorporate thyme and remaining seasonings. Introduce orzo and toast for 1 minute, enhancing its nutty flavor.

1. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, maintaining a steady simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent orzo from sticking, cooking for about 8 minutes until pasta is nearly al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.

1. Fold in fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt for 2 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice and sprinkle Parmesan cheese, stirring to create a creamy texture. Adjust liquid and seasoning as needed.

1. Gently return seared salmon to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo mixture. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reheat the fish and marry the flavors.

1. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and optional chili flakes. Serve immediately while hot and fragrant.

Notes

• Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture, preferably wild-caught for richer taste.
• Pat salmon completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown sear that locks in moisture.
• Toast orzo briefly before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Customize the dish by swapping spinach with other quick-cooking greens like kale or Swiss chard for variety.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 46 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg