Name: One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup baby spinach (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish); Lemon slices (for serving)

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If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant yet fuss-free dinner, you’ll fall in love with One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. This dish marries juicy, golden-seared salmon with a bed of creamy, lemon-scented orzo, all bursting with Mediterranean flair. It’s a deliciously balanced meal—bright, comforting, and on the table in just about half an hour. Whether you’re treating yourself or gathering loved ones, this lively skillet supper is sure to become a household favorite.

One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is how just a handful of pantry and fresh ingredients come together to make something truly special. Each one plays a starring role for flavor, color, and texture—don’t skip the finishing touches!

Salmon fillets (4, about 6 ounces each): Center-cut fillets work best for even cooking and tender, flaky bites every time.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Just a drizzle for that golden crust and a bit of Mediterranean flair.
Salt and black pepper: Season generously to elevate the natural flavors of both salmon and orzo.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds mellow, all-over warmth to each juicy fillet.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): This classic herb provides aromatic depth and a subtle earthiness.
Orzo pasta (1 cup): The miniature pasta pearls soak up lemony broth for velvety, risotto-like texture.
Low-sodium chicken broth (2 cups): Infuses every bite of orzo with savory goodness (swap for veggie broth if you wish).
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (1/4 cup): For zingy, sunshiny flavor that keeps the dish light and fresh.
Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Don’t skip this! The zest is where lemon’s true fragrance shines.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A little goes a long way—fresh garlic brings pungent, savory notes.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup): Creamy, salty, and nutty, Parmesan turns plain orzo irresistible.
Baby spinach (1 cup, optional): A handful wilts into the orzo, adding color and a nutritional boost.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): For a pop of green and an herby finishing flourish.
Lemon slices (for serving): The ultimate garnish for vibrant presentation and a little extra tang.

How to Make One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry and sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano on both sides. This gives you a punchy, herb-forward crust that will help the salmon caramelize beautifully in the skillet and infuse every bite with flavor from the start.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin). Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until they’ve turned a gorgeous golden color and are just cooked through. Transfer them to a plate and set aside—they’ll stay juicy and ready for their grand return.

Step 3: Toast the Garlic and Orzo

In the same skillet, lower the heat if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Let it bloom for about 30 seconds until aromatic—don’t let it burn! Add the orzo and toast, stirring for 1–2 minutes. This step helps unlock a nutty flavor and keeps the pasta from sticking later.

Step 4: Simmer the Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice, stirring well to deglaze the pan. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, giving it an occasional stir. The orzo should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed, creating a creamy, luscious base.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Stir in the lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach if you’re using it. The spinach will wilt almost instantly, and the Parmesan melts to create a silkier, creamier sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Return the Salmon and Serve

Nestle the cooked salmon fillets gently back into the skillet, pressing them into the lemony orzo. Let everything heat together for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors mingle and the whole dish warms through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and add a few lemon slices before serving right from the skillet.

How to Serve One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Garnishes

One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo truly shines with a finishing flourish of fresh chopped parsley and a scattering of thin lemon slices. These garnishes brighten the dish visually and add that fresh, aromatic zip at the table—don’t be shy! You can also add a pinch of extra Parmesan for a cheesy touch, or a few turns of black pepper if you love a bit of heat.

Side Dishes

This vibrant skillet is a meal in itself, but if you want a little something on the side, try a crisp green salad with cucumber and tomatoes, a simple Greek yogurt sauce, or even some crusty bread to soak up that irresistible orzo. Roasted asparagus or green beans also pair beautifully, adding extra color and crunch to your table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in shallow pasta bowls, letting the salmon sit proudly atop a bed of orzo. Or dish individual fillets and a generous scoop of orzo onto a big platter family-style—garnished lavishly—so everyone can dig in together. For elegant dinner parties, slice the salmon into thick strips and fan them across the orzo for a restaurant-style look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store any cooled One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 2 days, and the flavors actually meld and intensify a bit more overnight. Make sure the salmon and orzo are both cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions of the orzo on its own for up to 1 month—just let it cool first and pack into freezer-safe containers. The salmon itself can also be frozen separately, but keep in mind the texture may change a bit upon thawing. To use, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the orzo to loosen it up, then warm gently in a covered skillet on the stove. Heat the salmon alongside on low to avoid drying it out, or briefly in the microwave at low power. Add a bit more fresh lemon or parsley after reheating to revive those lively flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While salmon’s rich texture works beautifully, you can swap in cod, trout, or even shrimp with minor adjustments to cooking time. Just be sure to use a fish that holds up well to pan-searing and gentle simmering.

What if I don’t have orzo?

No orzo? No problem! Try substituting with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice (adjust liquid and cook time accordingly). Orzo’s petite shape gives the dish its signature creamy texture, but you can experiment with what you have on hand.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

You can! Skip the Parmesan or use your favorite dairy-free cheese. Add a splash of extra broth and a little olive oil at the end for added richness. The result will still be tangy, creamy, and delicious.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque in the center. Aim for an internal temperature of 125°F to 130°F for moist, tender fillets. Avoid overcooking for the juiciest, most flavorful results.

Is One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo suitable for meal prep?

One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is ideal for meal prep! Portion the salmon and orzo into containers and store in the fridge. It reheats well for satisfying lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be surprised if One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo becomes your go-to recipe for relaxed weeknights and lively dinner parties alike. The flavors are spectacular, the clean-up is a breeze, and you get a fulfilling, colorful meal in just one pan. Give it a try and see why this dish leaves people raving after the very first forkful!

One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

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4.6 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and easy-to-make one-skillet salmon dish with lemon orzo that is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. The tender salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon orzo, creating a Mediterranean-inspired meal that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Orzo:

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup baby spinach (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon slices (for serving)

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Instructions

Season salmon: Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
Cook salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Prepare orzo: In the same skillet, toast minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add orzo and cook for 1–2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 10 minutes until orzo is tender.
Finish dish: Stir in lemon zest, Parmesan, and spinach if using. Return salmon to the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices.