One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
If you’re looking for a vibrant, weeknight-friendly meal that delivers on both comfort and elegance, the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine perfectly seared salmon fillets nestled atop creamy, lemon-scented orzo, all made in a single pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. This dish brings together the rich, tender taste of salmon with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon and the irresistibly silky texture of orzo, creating a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s as impressive to serve as it is easy to pull together. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this is one recipe that truly shines.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role, infusing the dish with flavor, texture, and color. With just a handful of staples, you get a meal that feels both special and effortless.
- Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, center-cut fillets for the best taste and a beautiful presentation.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the salmon and orzo.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that gorgeous golden sear on the salmon.
- Shallot: Offers a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor that melts into the orzo.
- Garlic: Just a little goes a long way to add aromatic depth.
- Orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious flavors in the pan.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Infuses the orzo with savory depth; use your favorite variety.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish and ties all the flavors together.
- Lemon zest: Adds a fragrant citrus punch and beautiful color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings creaminess and a salty, umami-rich finish.
- Heavy cream (optional): For those who love a little extra luxuriousness in their orzo.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of green and a hint of freshness for the perfect garnish.
How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Salmon
Start by gently patting your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—this helps them sear beautifully. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side up and let it sizzle undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes, until the underside is golden. Flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily. Transfer the fillets to a plate and set aside; they’ll finish warming through later.
Step 2: Build Flavor with Shallot and Garlic
Without cleaning the skillet (hello, fewer dishes!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped shallot and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s soft and aromatic. Stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook for just 30 seconds to bloom its flavor—careful not to let it brown.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Next, add the orzo pasta directly to the skillet. Stir often for 1 to 2 minutes, letting the orzo toast lightly. This step adds a subtle nutty flavor and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy later on. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in the final dish.
Step 4: Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the orzo cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, you’re ready for the final touches.
Step 5: Add Lemon, Cheese, and Cream
Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, grated Parmesan, and heavy cream (if using). The orzo will become wonderfully creamy, with bright citrus notes that play off the richness of the salmon. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—this is your moment to make it perfect.
Step 6: Finish with Salmon and Garnish
Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them gently into the orzo. Let everything warm together for 2 to 3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe is ready to serve, straight from the pan.
How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a must for a pop of color and brightness, but don’t hesitate to add a few extra lemon wedges for squeezing at the table. A light sprinkle of additional Parmesan can make the dish feel extra special, especially for cheese lovers. If you want a little more flair, a few ribbons of fresh basil or dill are lovely, too.
Side Dishes
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe is a meal in itself, but if you want to round out the plate, try serving it with a crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or roasted broccoli. A basket of warm crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover orzo and sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, bring the skillet right to the table so everyone can serve themselves. For a more elegant presentation, plate each salmon fillet atop a bed of lemony orzo and add a delicate drizzle of olive oil and a twist of lemon zest on top. For a picnic twist, try spooning the orzo into small jars, topping with flaked salmon, parsley, and a wedge of lemon for a portable, make-ahead lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to two days. Transfer both the salmon and orzo to an airtight container once cooled, and store in the fridge. If possible, keep the salmon fillets separate from the orzo to maintain the best texture when reheating.
Freezing
While you can freeze the orzo portion for up to one month, the salmon is best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in foil and store separately from the orzo in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the orzo in a skillet with a splash of broth or water and warm gently over medium heat, stirring until creamy. Add the salmon for the last few minutes, covering the pan so it reheats gently without drying out. Avoid using high heat, which can overcook the salmon.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While salmon is wonderful here, you can easily substitute with other firm fish like cod, halibut, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure your protein is perfectly cooked.
Is there a dairy-free option for this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan and heavy cream. The orzo will still be creamy from the broth and starch, and you can add a drizzle of good olive oil for extra richness if you like.
Can I add vegetables to the orzo?
Definitely. Stir in a handful of baby spinach, peas, or even chopped asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking the orzo. They’ll add color, texture, and an extra nutritional boost.
What’s the best way to get a crispy salmon skin?
Pat the fillets very dry before seasoning, and make sure your skillet and oil are hot before adding the salmon skin-side down. Don’t move the fillets while they sear, and you’ll be rewarded with deliciously crisp skin every time.
Can I make the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the orzo and sear the salmon in advance, storing them separately. When ready to serve, gently reheat the orzo, then warm the salmon fillets in the skillet for a few minutes until heated through. Add fresh parsley and lemon just before serving for the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
Few dinners deliver the wow-factor with so little fuss like the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe. With its zesty lemon, creamy orzo, and perfectly seared salmon, it’s a dish that feels like a treat whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion. Give it a try—you might just find it’s a new favorite in your kitchen, too!
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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender salmon fillets are seared to perfection and served atop creamy, lemon-infused orzo pasta, all cooked in a single skillet for easy cleanup. The combination of fresh lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream creates a bright and rich sauce that complements the salmon beautifully. Garnished with fresh parsley, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is both elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Orzo and Sauce
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season and Sear Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side up and sear for 3–4 minutes until the surface turns golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped shallot for 1–2 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Toast Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes, allowing the pasta to lightly toast. This enhances the nuttiness and texture of the orzo.
- Cook Orzo: Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, grated Parmesan cheese, and the optional heavy cream. Mix well to create a creamy, tangy sauce that coats the orzo.
- Reheat Salmon and Serve: Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo. Warm through gently for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For variation, substitute salmon with shrimp or chicken breasts.
- To make this dish dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream.
- Include extra vegetables like fresh spinach or green peas for added nutrition and color.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should be moist and flaky.
- If orzo absorbs too much liquid before cooking is complete, add a splash more broth or water as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with orzo
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
