I tried this one skillet salmon with lemon orzo recipe last week, and I can’t stop thinking about how delicious and easy it was! The salmon was perfectly seared, and the lemon orzo had just the right amount of zestiness to elevate the dish.
Cooking everything in one skillet meant fewer dishes to clean, and that’s always a win in my book. If you’re looking for a wholesome meal that feels fancy without the effort, you’ll absolutely love this. By the way, if you enjoy fun and quick meals like this, you may also like the Chicken Philly Sandwich Recipe for another delicious dinner idea!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to make this delightful recipe. Each ingredient plays a unique role, so using fresh, high-quality items will make all the difference.
- Salmon fillets (4 skinless): Choose evenly sized fillets for even cooking. Skin-on works too if you prefer!
- Olive oil (1 tbsp) and unsalted butter (1 tsp): Combining these enhances flavor while raising the smoke point of the oil.
- Salt (1 tsp, divided), black pepper (1 tsp, divided): These basics season both the orzo and salmon fabulously.
- Sweet paprika (1 tsp): Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the salmon.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): A quick way to inject savory richness.
- Yellow onion (1, finely chopped): Opt for a medium-sized onion to balance the flavors.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): These form the aromatic base of the dish.
- Orzo pasta (1 cup, dry): This small pasta creates a creamy texture akin to risotto when cooked.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): An earthy touch that pairs beautifully with lemon and salmon.
- Chicken broth (3 cups, low sodium): Helps cook the orzo and adds flavor.
- Baby spinach (5 ounces): Brightens the dish with a pop of green.
- Lemon juice (juice from ½ lemon): Brings a refreshing zest that ties everything together.
- Grated Parmesan (½ cup): The key to a rich, creamy orzo.
- Optional toppings for serving: Chili flakes or freshly ground black pepper.
Note: This recipe serves four people.
Variations of This One-Pan Recipe
Want to customize the dish? Here are some tweaks you can make:
- Alternate Proteins: Swap the salmon for shrimp, cod, or even chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth and skip the salmon. Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute it with quinoa or rice.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the orzo while cooking for a sophisticated twist.
For another effortless yet delightful recipe, explore this Chinese Chicken Fried Rice on your next cooking night!
Cooking Time
This recipe is quick and perfect for busy evenings. Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
Prepare these tools before you start:
- Large skillet: To cook everything in a single pan.
- Spatula: For flipping and handling the salmon.
- Chef’s knife: Chopping onion and garlic.
- Cutting board: For a clean chopping space.
- Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan.
How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
To make a delicious one-skillet meal, this recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon with the creamy texture of lemon orzo. It’s an easy and quick dish perfect for busy weeknights, packed with vibrant tastes and satisfying textures. Here’s how to prepare it:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure everything is ready to go. Chop your onion, mince garlic, and pat the salmon fillets dry. Season the fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder for a flavorful crust when they hit the pan.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil and butter in your skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side up (if using skin-on) and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely seared. Transfer the salmon to a plate and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce heat to medium, and toss in the minced garlic and chopped onion. Stir them for about 2 minutes until they turn fragrant and soft.
Step 4: Toast the Orzo
Sprinkle the dried thyme and remaining seasoning into the skillet. Add the orzo, stirring it gently for 1 minute to toast it lightly. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta.
Step 5: Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes or until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
Step 6: Add the Spinach and Lemon
Once the orzo is nearly cooked, stir in the baby spinach and simmer until it wilts. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an instant burst of brightness.
Step 7: Stir in the Parmesan
Mix in the grated Parmesan, letting its creaminess infuse the orzo. If it looks too dry, add a bit more broth to achieve a silky sauce consistency.
Step 8: Finish with the Salmon
Return the seared salmon fillets to the pan. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes so they soak up the flavor while reheating.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Top with chili flakes or fresh black pepper, and your dish is ready to devour!
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my experience, these tips can enhance your meal even more:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged to avoid graininess.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning the salmon beforehand; it locks in flavor.
- Stir the orzo occasionally to prevent clumping or sticking to the skillet.
- Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness better.
- For a touch of luxury, drizzle a little olive oil before serving.
How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Presentation matters, and this dish looks stunning served straight from the skillet. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a splash of color. Pair it with a crisp leafy salad or roasted asparagus for a complete meal. For more dinner inspiration, check out these easy dinner recipes that are perfect all year round.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimate of the key nutritional elements per serving:
- Calories: 391
- Protein: 43g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 20g
How to Store This Dish
Want to save some for later? Here’s how you can:
- Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive the creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s practical too. Here’s why:
- Simple: Every step is easy to follow, even for beginners.
- One-pan cleanup: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable: Fits various dietary needs, from gluten-free to vegetarian.
- Perfect flavor balance: The zesty lemon complements the creamy orzo and rich salmon.
- Quick: Ideal for weeknight dinners at just 30 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight before using to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of orzo?
You can replace orzo with couscous, quinoa, or rice. Just adjust the cooking liquid accordingly.
How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?
Cook the orzo until it’s al dente, and avoid adding too much broth at once.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute Parmesan with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast.
What other proteins work well in this dish?
Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu would be delicious alternatives!