One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

Dinner magic happens when you whip up One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo—a vibrant, creamy, lemon-kissed dish that brings together tender salmon, silky pasta, leafy spinach, and plenty of fresh flavor in just 30 minutes. It’s weeknight-friendly yet so elegant, you’ll want to make it for guests, too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This weeknight superstar keeps things simple but delivers big. Each ingredient in One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo serves a purpose—building a balance of creamy pasta, flaky salmon, zippy citrus, and color from those vibrant greens.

• Skinless salmon fillets: Using skinless makes searing and serving easier, and you get perfectly tender bites all throughout.
• Salt and black pepper: Season in layers for a well-balanced savory backbone throughout the orzo and salmon.
• Sweet paprika: Adds a gentle warmth and gorgeous color to the salmon crust—don’t skip it!
• Garlic powder: Melds with the salmon, infusing each bite with cozy flavor without overpowering the fish.
• Olive oil & unsalted butter: Sear the salmon in this classic combo for a crispy, golden outside and luscious flavor.
• Yellow onion: Finely chop for a sweet, aromatic base that melts right into the creamy orzo.
• Fresh garlic: Mince it for punches of bright flavor that sing through the buttery pasta.
• Dry orzo pasta: Orzo’s rice-like shape soaks up broth and flavor, creating a risotto-style base with way less work.
• Dried thyme: Just a hint gives the whole skillet a subtle earthiness and complexity.
• Low sodium chicken broth: Provides depth and creaminess—we use low sodium so you can control seasoning.
• Baby spinach: Wilts down quickly, adding freshness, color, and those coveted leafy greens.
• Lemon juice: Brightens and balances, bringing a sunny zing that pairs so well with salmon and Parmesan.
• Grated Parmesan: Salty, nutty, and oh-so-creamy, this cheese brings everything together at the end.
• Freshly ground black pepper & chili flakes: Sprinkle right before serving for an extra kick and final flourish.

Variations

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is endlessly adaptable! Whether you’re working with what you have in the fridge or looking for a way to make it gluten-free or dairy-free, this recipe loves a good twist or swap.

• Go Green: Swap in kale or Swiss chard for spinach—just chop it small and wilt it down for color and nutrients.
• Citrus Swap: Try lime or even a little orange juice for a new citrus spin—just a touch totally changes the flavor mood.
• Cheese Change: Feta or goat cheese works as a tangy substitute for Parmesan if you’re feeling adventurous or want a Mediterranean vibe.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit the butter and cheese, and finish with a splash of olive oil and plenty of fresh herbs for bold flavor without the dairy.
• Different Protein: Not feeling salmon? Swap in shrimp, chicken, or even tofu—just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients & Season the Salmon

Start by getting your mise en place together—grate the Parmesan, chop the onion, and mince that garlic. Pat the salmon fillets dry (this is the secret to gorgeous browning!), then sprinkle both sides generously with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half the salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat a combination of olive oil and butter in a big nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering, add your salmon fillets and let them sizzle away, about 3-4 minutes per side. You’re aiming for deep golden edges and a just-cooked center. Set the salmon aside on a plate for later—it’ll finish cooking gently at the end.

Step 3: Build the Orzo Base

Reduce the heat, then toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Let them soften and turn fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in dried thyme, the remaining salt and pepper, then add the orzo. Toast the orzo for a minute—you’ll see it turn a little golden and nutty-scented, which gives the finished dish extra depth.

Step 4: Simmer the Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth and crank the heat to bring it to a boil, then drop it back to medium-low for a steady simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring now and then so the orzo doesn’t stick, until it’s almost al dente and most of the broth is absorbed—about 8 minutes. Don’t walk away for too long!

Step 5: Finish with Greens & Cheese

Add in the baby spinach and stir gently until it wilts down. Pour in the lemon juice, sprinkle in the Parmesan, and stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the salt if you need to, and add a splash more broth if you like a looser, silkier orzo.

Step 6: Return the Salmon & Serve

Snuggle the salmon fillets back into the skillet, nestling them into the creamy orzo. Let everything gently simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the salmon heats through and flavors mingle. Finish with lots of freshly ground pepper, a dusting of chili flakes, and enjoy straight from the pan for ultimate comfort.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Garnishes

Add the finishing touch with a flurry of grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chili flakes for gentle heat, and a shower of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives. Lemon wedges on the side let everyone add extra brightness to their liking.

Side Dishes

This meal is so complete you rarely need anything else, but a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or simple blistered cherry tomatoes all make delightful companions to your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the creamy orzo on a platter with salmon fillets nestled right on top for a wow-worthy family-style look. Or, for a fancy twist, pile everything into shallow bowls, twirl the orzo with tongs, and top each portion with a dramatic citrus slice or extra fresh herbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the salmon fillets on top of the pasta to help prevent them from overcooking when you reheat.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, but the texture of the orzo and spinach may change a bit after thawing. Cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to loosen the orzo and restore creaminess—cover the pan and use low heat, just until the salmon is warmed through. A quick zap in the microwave also works, but go slow to keep the fish tender.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something hearty, fresh, and spectacularly simple, trust me—One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo will become your go-to. Give it a try tonight, share it with loved ones, and don’t be surprised if it earns a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation!

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