One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place! One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights. It’s easy to whip up and combines the delightful flavors of pan-seared salmon with zesty lemon orzo, all cooked in one skillet. This means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones.

This dish is not only perfect for those hectic evenings but also shines during family gatherings or cozy weekend dinners. Trust me, everyone at your table will love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans! Everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of salmon, lemon, and spinach creates a delightful dish that bursts with flavor.
• Family-friendly: With its mild taste and comforting ingredients, this meal is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast.
• Healthy goodness: Packed with protein from the salmon and nutrients from the spinach, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! For this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe, you’ll need:

For the Salmon

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 tsp salt (divided)
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Orzo

• 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

For Serving

• 5 ounces baby spinach
• Juice from ½ lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• Chili flakes (for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If salmon isn’t your favorite, try using chicken or another fish like trout for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream for a rich texture that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Change the herbs: Don’t have thyme? Basil or dill work wonderfully too! Just use whatever fresh herbs you enjoy.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

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. This step ensures even seasoning. Season both sides of the salmon with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half a teaspoon each of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet. Once hot, add your seasoned salmon fillets. Searing them for about 3-4 minutes on each side gives them that beautiful golden crust while keeping them tender inside. Once done, remove from skillet and set aside—don’t worry; they’ll go back in later!

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and chopped onion to the same skillet. Cook until soft and fragrant, about two minutes. This step builds a flavor base that will make your dish sing! Stir in thyme along with remaining salt and pepper before adding orzo.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Toast the orzo by stirring it into your sautéed aromatics for about one minute. Then pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reducing heat to medium-low allows it to simmer gently—this way, everything cooks perfectly without sticking. Stir occasionally until most of the liquid is absorbed, which should take around eight minutes.

Step 5: Add Spinach & Flavor Enhancers

Once your orzo is almost al dente, toss in baby spinach. Stir until wilted—this will take just about two minutes! Next comes that splash of lemon juice along with grated Parmesan cheese for creaminess. If it seems too thick, feel free to add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Reintroduce Salmon

Now it’s time to return your lovely seared salmon back into the skillet! Simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes until heated through—this lets those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes if you like a bit of heat. Serve hot right from the skillet for an inviting presentation! Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Cooking can be a breeze when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep Ahead: Take a little time to chop your veggies and measure your ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable, especially on busy nights.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh lemon juice and fresh spinach. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your dish, making it more appetizing.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Keep a close eye on the salmon while it cooks. Overcooking can lead to dry fish—aim for a slightly translucent center for moist and tender fillets.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Everyone has different taste preferences! Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or chili flakes according to your liking—this is your dish, after all!
• Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is fantastic in this recipe, don’t hesitate to get creative with other herbs like dill or parsley. They can add an exciting twist and complement the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Serving your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo can be just as fun as cooking it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this dish beautifully at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley or Basil: Chopped fresh herbs not only look great but also add a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest over the top adds an extra zing and accentuates that lovely citrus flavor.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top before serving. They provide an earthy contrast that pairs perfectly with the creamy orzo.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for a crisp and nutritious side that complements the richness of salmon beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any extra creamy sauce from your plate—who can resist?
• Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Roasting cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a lovely color contrast alongside the salmon and orzo.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that balances the meal’s heartiness.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re set to impress your family or guests with an elegant yet easy dinner. Enjoy every bite of this delicious one-skillet creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is an excellent choice for meal prep, as it stores beautifully and can save you time during busy days. Here are some helpful tips for making the most of your leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the meal cool down thoroughly.
• Divide into portions if desired and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer as described above.

What can I serve with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but you could serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked. Alternatively, you can check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

Yes! While this recipe calls for salmon, you can substitute it with other firm white fish like cod or tilapia, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo as much as I do! It’s a simple yet delicious way to bring everyone together around the dinner table. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting friends, this all-in-one dish will surely impress. Happy cooking!