One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal to brighten your busy weeknights, you’re in for a treat! This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe is my go-to when I want something that feels special without all the fuss. It’s simple, flavorful, and comes together in just one pan—who doesn’t love that? Plus, the combination of perfectly cooked salmon with zesty lemon orzo and fresh spinach makes this dish not only nourishing but also a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe has you covered. It’s an easy way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time.
• One Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax with loved ones.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from salmon and nutrients from spinach, it’s as good for you as it is delicious.
• Customizable Flavors: The recipe is flexible, letting you swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Perfectly Balanced: The combination of lemony orzo and savory salmon creates a delightful harmony of flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that are easy to find. Here’s what 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 the Finishing Touches

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or shrimp instead of salmon for a different flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute orzo with quinoa or brown rice for a gluten-free alternative.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh dill or basil can add a lovely twist to the dish.

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. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper. This step ensures that your salmon has a great flavor right from the beginning!

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Add salmon fillets and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once they’re beautifully browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Searing gives your salmon a delicious crust while keeping it tender inside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

Reduce heat to medium and add garlic and onion to the skillet. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme along with the remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo to toast it for about 1 minute; this will enhance its nutty flavor!

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally until most of the liquid is absorbed and orzo is almost al dente—this should take about 8 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

Add baby spinach into the skillet, stir it in gently, and let it simmer until wilted—around 2 minutes should do! Then mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. If it looks too thick, feel free to add more broth; tasting as you go allows you to adjust flavors perfectly!

Step 6: Return Salmon to Skillet

Carefully return your seared salmon back into the skillet. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through completely. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Top your dish with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes for an extra kick if desired. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!

Pro Tips for Making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Cooking can be a breeze, especially with this one-skillet recipe! Here are some pro tips to ensure your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo turns out perfectly every time:

• Prep Ahead: Take the time to chop your vegetables and measure out your ingredients before cooking. This not only streamlines the cooking process but also helps you avoid any last-minute scrambling.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh spinach and high-quality salmon can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients often have more nutrients and taste, making your meal even more delicious.

• Monitor Cooking Times: Keep an eye on both the salmon and orzo while they cook. Overcooking the salmon can lead to a dry texture, while undercooked orzo may not reach its perfect creamy consistency.

• Add Broth Gradually: If you find that the orzo is absorbing liquid too quickly, feel free to add broth incrementally. This ensures your dish remains creamy and prevents sticking.

• Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your dish throughout the cooking process! Adjusting salt or lemon juice at different stages will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Presentation is key when it comes to serving this delightful dish. Here are some ideas on how to make it look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the lemony flavors beautifully.
• Lemon Zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top right before serving enhances both aroma and flavor, giving an extra zing to every bite.
• Cracked Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds visual appeal but also elevates the dish’s overall taste profile with a hint of spice.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted asparagus provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy orzo.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a comforting addition that pairs well with any pasta dish. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce!
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the salmon.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while complementing the flavors in your skillet meal without overpowering them.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to creating an impressive meal that everyone will love! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy nutritious and delicious meals throughout the week. Here’s how to store your leftovers and keep them fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool entirely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best quality, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring between each until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use another type of fish for this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

Absolutely! You can substitute salmon with other firm white fish like cod or tilapia. Just adjust cooking times as needed since different fish may require varying times to cook through.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked in One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you prefer it cooked less, aim for a slightly translucent center.

Can I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo without using cheese?

Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with your favorite non-dairy cheese alternative. The dish will still be delicious without it!

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

This dish is quite filling on its own, but you could pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness and color.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful dish!