There’s something truly special about a meal that comes together effortlessly, especially after a long day. Picture this: you step into the kitchen, and within just 30 minutes, a delightful aroma fills the air, hinting at the delicious One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo waiting to be savored. This dish not only showcases the rich, buttery flavors of pan-seared salmon but also brings together creamy lemon orzo and vibrant spinach for a wholesome experience that pleases the palate.
Whether you’re feeding the family on a hectic weeknight or preparing a comforting feast for friends, this all-in-one meal is designed to impress without the fuss. With minimal cleanup required, you’ll have more time to enjoy the company around your table. So, grab your skillet and let’s transform simple ingredients into a flavor-packed dinner that embodies both health and indulgence!
Why You’ll Love This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Effortless Cooking: This one-pan wonder simplifies dinner prep, letting you create a delicious meal without juggling multiple pots and pans.
Fresh and Flavorful: Bursting with lemony brightness and the richness of salmon, each bite is a delightful celebration of flavors that your taste buds will adore.
Family-Friendly: Packed with nutrients and appealing to both kids and adults, this dish encourages healthy eating without sacrificing taste.
Quick Dinner Solution: Ready in just 30 minutes, it perfectly suits your busy lifestyle, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals.
Easy Cleanup: With everything cooked in a single skillet, clean-up is a breeze—leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal!
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Ingredients
For the Salmon
• Skinless Salmon Fillets – This primary protein source can also be swapped for skin-on salmon or even shrimp for variety.
• Salt (1 tsp, divided) – Enhances overall flavor; feel free to adjust based on your sodium preference.
• Coarsely Ground Black Pepper (1 tsp, divided) – Adds depth; use freshly ground for the best taste.
• Sweet Paprika (1 tsp) – Brings a sweet, earthy flavor, with the option to substitute smoked paprika if desired.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds a savory punch; fresh minced garlic works well too, but use less to avoid overpowering the dish.
For the Cooking Base
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Perfect for searing salmon and preventing sticking; can be replaced with canola oil if needed.
• Unsalted Butter (1 tsp) – Enhances richness; consider margarine or more olive oil for dairy-free options.
• Yellow Onion (1, finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots or green onions can be effective substitutes.
• Garlic Cloves (3, minced) – Delivers aromatic flavor; fresh is ideal, yet pre-minced garlic works in a pinch.
For the Orzo and Broth
• Dry Orzo Pasta (1 cup) – This main carbohydrate creates creaminess; swap for quinoa or rice for a gluten-free version.
• Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – Boosts herbal notes; use fresh thyme (about 3 tsp) if available.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth (3 cups) – Provides flavor to the orzo; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative.
For the Finishing Touches
• Baby Spinach (5 ounces) – Adds nutrients and a pop of color; can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard if desired.
• Juice from ½ Lemon – Infuses freshness and acidity, with the option to include extra lemon zest for added zing.
• Grated Parmesan (½ cup) – Adds creaminess and umami; try vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper (for serving) – Enhances flavor just before serving; this is optional but highly recommended.
• Chili Flakes (for serving) – Provides a little kick; feel free to omit if spice isn’t your thing.
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is not only delicious but also simplifies your cooking process, making it a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love!
How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
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Prep Ingredients: Begin by chopping your onion, mincing the garlic, and grating the Parmesan cheese. This will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable!
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Season Salmon: Pat the skinless salmon fillets dry, then season both sides generously with garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper for delicious flavor enhancement.
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Sear Salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of unsalted butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets for 3-4 minutes per side until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through; then, remove them from the skillet.
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Cook Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and chopped onion into the same skillet. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
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Toast Orzo: Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme along with the remaining salt and pepper. Add 1 cup of dry orzo pasta and toast it in the pan for 1 minute, allowing it to absorb all the fragrant flavors.
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Add Broth: Pour in 3 cups of low sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is almost al dente.
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Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: Gently fold in 5 ounces of baby spinach, cooking until wilted (around 2 minutes). Then, mix in the juice from ½ lemon and the grated Parmesan. Adjust the consistency with additional broth if needed.
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Combine Everything: Return the perfectly seared salmon to the skillet and let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Serve hot, topped with freshly ground black pepper and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a delightful kick!
Optional: For extra brightness, add a little lemon zest just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish truly your own with these exciting twists!
- Gluten-Free: Swap dry orzo pasta with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free alternative that still tastes amazing.
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil and nutritional yeast instead of butter and Parmesan for a creamy blend that’s completely dairy-free.
- Heat Level: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that can be adjusted to your taste.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in cherry tomatoes or bell peppers while sautéing aromatics for a colorful and flavorful nutrient boost.
- Herb Variety: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil instead of thyme to brighten up the flavors with garden freshness.
- Zesty Addition: Add lemon zest along with the juice for an extra citrus punch that enhances the dish’s brightness.
- Protein Swap: Replace salmon with chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein option that’s equally delicious and enjoyable.
- Richness in Flavor: Incorporate capers or olives into the dish during the orzo cooking stage for a salty, savory surprise in each bite.
Make Ahead Options
These One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prep all the components, such as chopping the onion and mincing the garlic, up to 24 hours in advance. Store these in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, season the salmon fillets ahead of time and keep them covered for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the instructions from the toasting of the orzo onwards, adding the salmon in during the last few minutes to ensure it’s just as delicious and perfectly cooked. Enjoy a delightful meal without the stress!
How to Store and Freeze One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
- Freezer: If freezing, portion the dish into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop.
- Reheating: For the best texture, add a little broth when reheating to prevent the orzo from drying out. Keep the heat low to ensure even warming without overcooking the salmon.
- Avoiding Spoilage: To maintain freshness, ensure the dish is cooled completely before transferring to storage; avoid letting it sit out at room temperature for too long.
What to Serve with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing delightful sides and drinks that complement the vibrant flavors of your main dish.
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Garlic Bread: The crusty, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy lemon orzo, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
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Simple Arugula Salad: Crisp arugula, tossed with a light vinaigrette, adds freshness and a peppery kick that perfectly contrasts the richness of the salmon. Enjoy the balance of flavors and textures this salad brings!
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Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus, roasted until tender, contributes a touch of earthiness and a slight char, marrying well with the aromatic notes of your dish.
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Lemon Herb Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa enhanced with fresh herbs and a hint of citrus brings an additional layer of nutrition and pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of the orzo.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the lemony brightness of the dish while enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: Conclude your meal with a light, airy chocolate mousse; its rich creaminess creates a delightful ending to a fresh, savory dinner.
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Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Zest: Tender broccoli topped with an extra sprinkle of lemon zest adds a burst of brightness, echoing the flavors in your main dish seamlessly.
Expert Tips for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- Nonstick Skillet: Use a nonstick skillet to prevent the salmon from sticking and ensure easy clean-up while preparing your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo.
- Orzo Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time of orzo based on the brand; it’s best to taste-test for doneness to avoid mushiness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs provide better flavor than dried alternatives, making your dish more vibrant and enjoyable.
- Broth Monitoring: Keep an eye on the broth level; some stoves run hotter, causing liquid to evaporate faster—add more if needed.
- Custom Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional spices like capers or fresh herbs to enhance the flavors tailored to your family’s taste.
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon should I use?
Absolutely! Skinless salmon fillets are recommended for this dish to keep it light and healthy. However, you can opt for skin-on salmon for extra flavor or even switch it up with shrimp if you prefer seafood variety.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the orzo creamy.
Can I freeze One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?
Of course! To freeze, portion the dish into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring they’re well sealed. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat it on the stovetop, adding a little broth if needed to maintain moisture.
What if my orzo isn’t cooking properly?
No worries! If your orzo seems undercooked, it may need a touch more liquid. Simply add a little more broth and cook it for an additional minute or two. Make sure to stir occasionally to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
Is this dish suitable for people with allergies?
It’s essential to be mindful! This recipe contains fish and dairy, so if you’re cooking for someone with allergies, consider using a dairy-free substitute like vegan Parmesan and replacing salmon with a suitable protein such as chicken or tofu. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
How can I enhance the flavors of this dish?
The more the merrier! You can boost this dish’s flavor profile by adding ingredients like capers, fresh herbs, or even a hint of zest from an extra lemon. These additions lend a delightful brightness to the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo that your whole family will love!
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo for Easy Weeknight Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by chopping your onion, mincing the garlic, and grating the Parmesan cheese.
- Pat the skinless salmon fillets dry, then season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through; remove them from the skillet.
- Lower the heat and add minced garlic and chopped onion into the same skillet. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in dried thyme, remaining salt and pepper, and add dry orzo pasta. Toast it in the pan for 1 minute.
- Pour in low sodium chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook uncovered for about 8 minutes.
- Gently fold in baby spinach until wilted. Mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan, adjusting consistency with more broth if needed.
- Return the seared salmon to the skillet and let simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.