One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required as everything is cooked in a single skillet.
• Balanced Nutrition: Combines protein-rich salmon, wholesome orzo, and nutrient-packed spinach.
• Flavorful and Fresh: The lemon juice adds a refreshing zest that elevates the overall flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the Salmon:
  • Salmon fillets
  • Olive oil
  • Unsalted butter
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Sweet paprika
  • Garlic powder
• For the Lemon Orzo:
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Orzo pasta
  • Fresh spinach
  • Chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Dried thyme
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Salmon:
   • Season salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and garlic powder.
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the salmon, skin-side up, for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
   • Flip and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Orzo:
   • In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Stir in the orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
   • Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and the broth is mostly absorbed.
3. Combine and Finish:
   • Stir in fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt.
   • Add freshly grated Parmesan, dried thyme, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
   • Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
   • Return the salmon to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo.
   • Warm through for 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve:
   • Divide the orzo and salmon among plates.
   • Garnish with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute salmon with shrimp or chicken for a different take.
• Vegetable Options: Replace spinach with kale, broccoli florets, or green peas.
• Grain Substitutes: Use couscous or quinoa instead of orzo for a unique texture.
• Herb Enhancements: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for additional freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the orzo.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve a good sear.

2. What can I substitute for orzo?

Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even rice can be used as alternatives.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, but you can use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

4. Can I add cream to make the orzo creamier?

Yes, a splash of heavy cream can be added towards the end for extra creaminess.

5. How do I prevent the salmon from overcooking?

Sear the salmon until just cooked through, and avoid prolonged reheating to maintain its moisture.

6. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides superior flavor, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.

7. What type of skillet is best for this recipe?

A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan works well for even heat distribution.

8. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute butter with olive oil

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and delicious one-pan dinner featuring perfectly seared salmon, creamy orzo, fresh spinach, and a zesty lemon twist. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.

 

---

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp sweet paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Lemon Orzo:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon:
   • Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
   • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the salmon, skin-side up, for 3-4 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Orzo:
   • In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent.
   • Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in orzo and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
   • Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until the orzo is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
3. Combine and Finish:
   • Stir in spinach, Parmesan, thyme, and lemon juice. Mix until the spinach wilts and the ingredients are well combined.
   • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Nestle the salmon back into the skillet and warm through for 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve:
   • Plate the orzo and salmon, garnishing with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

• Ensure salmon is dry before seasoning for a better sear.
• Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep the orzo creamy.
• Use fresh herbs like parsley for an extra burst of fl

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: One-Pan Meal
• Cuisine: Mediterranean