Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzling sound of salmon hitting a hot skillet signals an evening filled with warmth and flavor. There’s something incredibly comforting about preparing a meal in one pan, isn’t there? My recipe for One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo brings the elegance of a fine dining experience right into your kitchen, all while being a breeze to whip up during a busy weeknight. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy dinner features crispy salmon resting atop creamy, lemon-infused orzo, punctuated by the vibrant greens of fresh spinach. It’s the perfect combination of heartiness and brightness that will make your taste buds sing! Curious about how to create this satisfying dish yourself? Let’s dive in! Why is One Skillet Cooking Amazing? Effortless Meal Prep: This One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo simplifies dinner by minimizing cleanup, so you can focus on savoring every bite instead of washing dishes. Savory Satisfaction: The crispy salmon paired with creamy lemon orzo offers a delightful burst of flavor and comfort. Speedy Cooking: Whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Versatile Protein Options: Whether you prefer salmon, chicken, or shrimp, this recipe easily adapts to what you have on hand. Nutrient-Rich Greens: The addition of baby spinach elevates the nutritional value, making it a wholesome meal. Don’t forget to check out my recipe for Garlic Butter Salmon for another delicious seafood option! One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo Ingredients This elegant dish comes together with just a handful of ingredients! For the Salmon Skinless Salmon Fillets – A rich, flaky protein; can be swapped with chicken thighs or shrimp. Salt – Essential for enhancing flavors; opt for kosher for better texture. Coarsely Ground Black Pepper – Adds an extra layer of flavor; adjust according to your preference. Garlic Powder – Infuses savory notes; fresh minced garlic can be used for a more robust taste. Sweet Paprika – Provides mild sweetness and a dash of color; omit if you don’t have it. For the Orzo Dry Orzo Pasta – The hearty base; gluten-free orzo is an excellent substitute for a gluten-free option. Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds flavor while cooking the orzo; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version. Dried Thyme – Brings a lovely herbal note; feel free to substitute with fresh thyme for a bright taste. Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced for maximum aroma and taste. Yellow Onion – Sautéed for a hint of sweetness; red or white onions are great substitutes. Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances flavors when serving; adjust to your liking. For Creaminess and Zing Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; use olive oil for a dairy-free option. Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing; can be swapped with avocado oil if desired. Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish beautifully; always use fresh for the best flavor. Grated Parmesan – Adds a creamy finish; omit or use dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version. Chili Flakes – For a touch of heat; adjust according to your spice preference. For Nutritional Boost Baby Spinach – Adds vibrant greens; kale or Swiss chard can be substituted for variety. This One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo will not only delight your taste buds but will also make your cooking experience enjoyable and effortless! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo Step 1: Season the Salmon Begin by seasoning skinless salmon fillets with a generous sprinkle of salt, coarsely ground black pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika. Ensure the fillets are evenly coated for a flavorful crust. Set them aside to absorb the spices while you heat up your skillet. Step 2: Sear the Salmon In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is sizzling and fragrant, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the salmon and let it rest on a plate. Step 3: Sauté Aromatics Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add chopped yellow onion and finely minced garlic, sautéing until they soften, about 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning, until the onions become translucent and the mixture is fragrant. This builds the aromatic base for your One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo. Step 4: Toast the Orzo Sprinkle in the dried thyme, followed by the dry orzo pasta. Toast the orzo in the skillet for about 1 minute, stirring well to combine with the onion and garlic. This step enhances its nutty flavor and prepares it to absorb the broth. Step 5: Cook the Orzo Gradually pour in low sodium chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook the orzo for approximately 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender, you’ll notice a creamy texture forming, perfect for your One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo. Step 6: Add the Spinach and Lemon Juice Toss in a couple of handfuls of baby spinach, stirring until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Then, mix in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, stirring until everything is well incorporated. This addition brightens the dish and adds richness. Step 7: Reintroduce the Salmon Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy orzo mixture. Allow them to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are warm and infused with the lemony flavors of the dish. Step 8: Serve and Season When ready to serve, plate the One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo and garnish with a sprinkle of chili flakes and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The final dish should be vibrant and inviting, perfect for a family dinner or an effortless gourmet night! One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo Variations Feel free to make this dish your own and delight in endless possibilities! Protein Swap: For a lighter option, swap salmon for boneless chicken thighs or quick-cooking shrimp—both will cook beautifully in this dish. Dairy-Free Delight: Omit the grated Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Your taste buds won’t know the difference! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh rosemary or basil instead of dried thyme to introduce a fragrant twist that elevates the entire dish. Veggie Boost: Toss in frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added sweetness and color that complements the orzo’s creaminess. Zesty Feta: Crumble feta cheese over the top instead of Parmesan for a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the lemon’s brightness. Heat Elements: Want to spice things up? Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauté for a fiery touch. Nutty Crust: Top your finished dish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch that adds texture. Salad Companion: Serve alongside a refreshing arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity will balance the richness of the dish beautifully. Each variation opens a new door to delicious dining; try them out or mix and match based on what you have on hand! And if you’re looking for more scrumptious seafood ideas, don’t miss my Baked Cajun Salmon with Creamy Avocado Lime Sauce for another delightful twist. How to Store and Freeze One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo Fridge: Store any leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Portion into single servings for easy reheating later. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and restore creamy texture. Stir occasionally until heated through. Thawing: To thaw, place frozen orzo in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting, avoiding any direct heat to prevent overcooking the salmon. What to Serve with One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo Imagine your kitchen filling with the aroma of lemon and herbs, perfectly complementing the richness of your meal. Light Arugula Salad: The peppery bite of arugula with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette cuts through the dish’s creaminess, offering a refreshing contrast. It adds a crisp texture and bright flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread adds a delightful crunch to your meal. Perfect for scooping up any leftover orzo, it offers a satisfying texture alongside the creamy dish. Roasted Asparagus: Tender-stalked asparagus seasoned with olive oil and lemon zest brings a lovely earthiness and color to your plate, tying in beautifully with the orzo’s flavor profile. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs excellently, enhancing the lemon flavors while providing a crisp, refreshing sip. Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light and zesty lemon sorbet cleanses the palate perfectly. Its sweet, icy touch complements the meal’s warmth wonderfully, wrapping up the dinner on a refreshing note. Cucumber Mint Salad: This salad cools the palate with its crisp cucumbers and mint leaves, providing a refreshing juxtaposition to the warm richness of the orzo and salmon. Creamy Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw adds crunch and a creamy element, harmonizing with the robust flavors of the One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo while enhancing your meal’s overall texture and taste. Expert Tips for One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo Get the Skillet Hot: Preheat your nonstick skillet before adding the salmon. A hot skillet ensures a crispy exterior and prevents sticking. Don’t Overcook Salmon: To avoid dry salmon, cook until just opaque in the center. Remember, it will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the heat. Stir the Orzo Frequently: Keep the orzo from clumping by stirring it every couple of minutes while it cooks. This will create a creamy texture without the need for stirring often. Add Freshness at the End: Incorporate lemon juice and spinach after cooking the orzo for maximum flavor and vibrant color. Fresh ingredients make the One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo pop! Experiment with Proteins: If salmon isn’t on hand, consider using chicken thighs or shrimp. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly. Garnish for Visual Appeal: A sprinkle of chili flakes and freshly ground black pepper enhances both flavor and presentation. Your family will love the gourmet touch! Make Ahead Options These One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can season the salmon fillets and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen while you focus on other tasks. Additionally, cook the orzo and spinach mixture ahead of time, as it will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. To maintain quality, reheat the orzo gently with a splash of broth before returning the seared salmon to warm through. When ready to serve, simply plate the dish, finish with lemon juice and Parmesan, and enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort! One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! When picking your salmon, look for fillets that are bright in color with a moist sheen, and avoid any that have dark spots all over. For the spinach, choose vibrant, crisp leaves without any wilting or browning for the best flavor and nutrition. The lemons should feel heavy and firm, indicating juiciness. How should I store leftovers of One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo? Very good question! Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which could affect the quality. When serving again, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to maintain its creamy texture. Can I freeze One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo? Of course! To freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. For best results, consider portioning it into single servings for easier reheating later on. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting. What if my orzo sticks together while cooking? The more the merrier! To prevent sticking, stir the orzo every couple of minutes during cooking. This will help to create that lovely, creamy texture without clumping. If you notice it getting too sticky, add a little extra broth and stir gently to loosen it up. Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Absolutely! This One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo can easily be adapted to meet various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan and use olive oil instead of butter. If you have allergies, make sure to check ingredient labels, especially for chicken broth and any toppings you use. You can also modify the protein to accommodate preferences—chicken or shrimp are great alternatives! One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo for Effortless Gourmet Nights Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy salmon and creamy lemon orzo in this One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo recipe. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon4 fillets Skinless Salmon can be swapped with chicken thighs or shrimp1 tsp Salt opt for kosher for better texture1 tsp Coarsely Ground Black Pepper adjust according to your preference1 tsp Garlic Powder fresh minced garlic can be used for a more robust taste1 tsp Sweet Paprika omit if you don’t have itFor the Orzo1 cup Dry Orzo Pasta gluten-free orzo is an excellent substitute2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version1 tsp Dried Thyme feel free to substitute with fresh thyme2 cloves Garlic freshly minced1 medium Yellow Onion red or white onions are great substitutes1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper adjust to your likingFor Creaminess and Zing1 tbsp Unsalted Butter use olive oil for a dairy-free option1 tbsp Olive Oil can be swapped with avocado oil2 tbsp Lemon Juice always use fresh for the best flavor1/4 cup Grated Parmesan omit or use dairy-free cheese for dairy-free version1/4 tsp Chili Flakes adjust according to your spice preferenceFor Nutritional Boost2 cups Baby Spinach kale or Swiss chard can be substituted Equipment Nonstick Skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsSeason the skinless salmon fillets with salt, coarsely ground black pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika. Set aside.Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden-brown. Remove and let rest.Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened.Add dried thyme and dry orzo pasta, toast for about 1 minute, stirring to combine.Pour in low sodium chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook orzo for approximately 8 minutes until tender.Toss in baby spinach and stir until wilted. Add lemon juice and grated Parmesan, mixing well.Reintroduce the salmon fillets into the skillet, allowing them to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.Serve and garnish with chili flakes and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
