One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Looking for a satisfying, one-pan meal that’s both healthy and full of flavor? This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a weeknight hero! Juicy salmon fillets are perfectly seared and served over creamy, zesty lemon orzo, all made in a single pan for easy prep and cleanup. Light, fresh, and utterly comforting, this dish is a family favorite in the making.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes, more flavor, and faster cleanup.
Bright and Fresh – Lemon adds a zingy lift that complements the richness of salmon.
Nutritious and Satisfying – Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Restaurant-Quality at Home – Looks fancy, tastes amazing, but super simple to pull off.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Lemon Orzo:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 cups baby spinach (optional, for a green boost)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet with lid (or oven-safe skillet)
• Spatula or tongs
• Zester or grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Salmon

1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while prepping the orzo.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) and sear for 3-4 minutes.
3. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden and cooked through.
4. Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate; cover loosely with foil.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics & Toast Orzo

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the orzo and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

1. Pour in broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
3. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Finish the Lemon Orzo

1. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (if using) for a luscious texture.
2. Add baby spinach and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Return Salmon to the Skillet

1. Nestle the cooked salmon fillets on top of the lemon orzo.
2. Spoon some of the orzo mixture around them to warm the salmon through.
3. Cook for an additional 2 minutes uncovered to blend flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove skillet from heat.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
3. Serve straight from the skillet for a beautiful family-style presentation.

Tips for Perfect One Skillet Salmon
Use Fresh Salmon – For the best texture and flavor, fresh fillets work beautifully.
Don’t Overcook – Salmon is best when it flakes easily and is still moist in the center.
Add Greens – Spinach or kale makes this a more balanced, nutrient-rich meal.
Finish with Lemon – A final squeeze of lemon before serving brightens up the whole dish.
Customize Creaminess – Skip the cream for a lighter version or use Greek yogurt as a substitute.

Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy orzo.
Simple Side Salad – A crisp cucumber and tomato salad adds freshness.
Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
Sparkling Water with Citrus – A light, bubbly drink pairs nicely with lemony flavors.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep salmon and orzo together or store separately depending on preference.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the orzo. Heat gently over medium heat.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
   Yes! Try cod, trout, or tilapia if you don’t have salmon on hand.
2. Is orzo gluten-free?
   Traditional orzo contains wheat, but gluten-free versions are available in many stores.
3. Can I use milk instead of cream?
   Yes, though it won’t be as rich. For extra flavor, use full-fat milk or a touch of butter.
4. How do I know when salmon is cooked?
   Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout (internal temp of 145°F).
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Absolutely—skip the Parmesan and cream, and add a drizzle of olive oil for extra silkiness.

Final Thoughts
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the ultimate weeknight winner. It brings together flaky, tender salmon and creamy, zesty orzo in a dish that’s hearty, healthy, and hassle-free. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, it’s guaranteed to impress—without breaking a sweat.

Try it out and let me know how it goes! Be sure to leave a comment and share your masterpiece on Instagram or Pinterest. I’d love to see how it turned out for you.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American-Mediterranean

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 480 | Protein: 35g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 420mg

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