One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal. Tender, flaky salmon is paired with creamy, zesty lemon orzo, all made in just one pan for easy cleanup. Packed with nutrients and vibrant flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
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For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin-on or skinless
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for added flavor)
For the Lemon Orzo
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (200 g) orzo pasta
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk or heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Directions
Step 1: Sear the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for 3-4 minutes.
- Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Orzo
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tbsp of olive oil or butter. Sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo pasta, coating it in the oil or butter for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the dried thyme or oregano. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Add Lemon and Cheese
- Stir in the milk or heavy cream (if using), fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the salmon to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Spoon some of the orzo mixture over the salmon to warm it through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Orzo substitutions: Use small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini if orzo is unavailable.
- Add veggies: For extra nutrition, stir in spinach, asparagus, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to refresh the texture.
Why This Recipe Works
This one-skillet recipe is a time-saver without compromising on flavor. The lemon juice and zest brighten the creamy orzo, while the seared salmon adds richness and protein. By cooking everything in one pan, you’ll have minimal cleanup and maximum taste!
Conclusion
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its fresh, citrusy flavors and creamy texture make it a delightful and wholesome meal. Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish from the comfort of your home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components of this dish in advance. You can cook the orzo mixture up to 1 day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat the orzo gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water. Cook the salmon fresh just before serving for the best texture, or cook it ahead and gently reheat it in the orzo. Assemble the dish right before serving for optimal flavor and presentation.
What are some ingredient substitutions I can use for the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?
Certainly! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini, using the same 1-cup measurement. For the broth, vegetable broth can be used in place of chicken broth. If you prefer, you can use butter instead of olive oil in the orzo, using a 1:1 ratio. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme or oregano. If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can omit it, or use a pinch of regular paprika.
How do I know when the salmon and orzo are perfectly cooked in this One Skillet recipe?
The salmon is perfectly cooked when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The orzo is done when it is tender but still has a slight bite, and most of the liquid has been absorbed. The orzo should not be mushy. The cooking time for the orzo is typically 8-10 minutes after the broth is added.
Can I scale up or double the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe?
Yes, you can easily double this recipe. Use a larger skillet to accommodate the increased volume of ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking times slightly, especially for the salmon. Ensure the salmon fillets are not overcrowded in the pan, and cook in batches if necessary. Add extra broth and seasoning as needed, and monitor the orzo for doneness.
What is the nutritional value of this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo dish?
This dish is packed with nutrients! Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamin D. Orzo provides carbohydrates for energy. The lemon juice and zest contribute vitamin C and antioxidants. The addition of vegetables, such as spinach, asparagus, or peas (mentioned in the notes), will increase the fiber and vitamin content. Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein.
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
A delicious and easy one-pan meal featuring succulent salmon fillets and tangy lemon orzo, perfect for a quick dinner.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds salmon fillets skin-on, if preferred
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add salmon fillets, skin-side down, and sear for 4-5 minutes.
- Flip salmon and sear for an additional 2-3 minutes until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add orzo, chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper. Serve salmon on top of lemon orzo.
Notes
For extra flavor, garnish with additional lemon slices.
