One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo

This one skillet salmon with lemon orzo is my go to when I need a weeknight dinner that is both impressive and easy. The salmon cooks up perfectly golden while the orzo simmers in a bright lemony sauce with plenty of spinach and melty Parmesan. You get comfort food vibes without any fuss and the clean up is a breeze since everything comes together in just one pan.

The first time I tried this was on a night when everyone was cranky and tired and we were all smiling by the time the meal was done

Ingredients

• Skinless salmon fillets: choose firm and bright looking fish for best flavor
• Salt: adds flavor and helps season both the salmon and orzo
• Coarsely ground black pepper: boosts the overall savoriness
• Sweet paprika: gives the salmon gorgeous color and subtle warmth
• Garlic powder: rounds out the salmon’s seasoned crust
• Olive oil: for crisping the salmon and sautéing onions
• Unsalted butter: adds richness and helps soften the onions
• Yellow onion: finely chopped for sweetness and depth
• Garlic cloves: minced for bright garlicky notes
• Dry orzo pasta: little rice like pasta that cooks fast and soaks up all the flavors
• Dried thyme: offers subtle earthiness to the orzo
• Low sodium chicken broth: packs in more flavor than water and keeps the orzo creamy
• Baby spinach: wilts right into the pan for a healthy veggie boost Pick bright green leaves
• Juice from half a lemon: brings the sauce to life Use fresh lemon if you can
• Grated Parmesan: for creamy cheesy goodness Shred it yourself for the best results
• Freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes: for a finishing kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Salmon:

Pat the salmon fillets dry and sprinkle each side with a pinch of salt pepper paprika and garlic powder Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Place the salmon skin side up and cook until deeply golden about four minutes Flip carefully and cook the other side for two to three minutes until just cooked through Remove the salmon and set aside

Sauté the Aromatics:

Lower heat to medium and add butter Once melted add the chopped onion and cook stirring often for about three to four minutes until soft and fragrant Add the minced garlic and cook one minute until just golden

Toast the Orzo:

Stir in the orzo and dried thyme Make sure every grain is coated in the flavorful oil and cook for two minutes to toast This step ensures nutty depth in your finished dish

Simmer the Orzo:

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer scraping the pan bottom to absorb any browned bits Cover and cook stirring occasionally for eight to ten minutes until almost all the broth is absorbed and the orzo is tender

Add Spinach and Lemon:

Toss in the baby spinach and lemon juice Stir well to wilt the greens completely into the hot orzo

Finish with Parmesan and Salmon:

Sprinkle Parmesan over the orzo and nestle the salmon fillets on top Cover the pan for another one to two minutes so everything heats through and flavors meld spooning some of the saucy orzo over the salmon before serving Top with extra black pepper and chili flakes if you like

Save This

The lemon is my favorite part of this recipe because it wakes up the whole dish and makes the orzo taste so fresh Every time I cook this I remember teaching my daughter how to zest her first lemon and her laughter is now forever tied to this meal

Storage Tips

Once cooled this dish can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days The orzo thickens as it sits so add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen it back up The salmon holds up well and stays moist when gently reheated on the stove or in the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken broth for vegetable broth if you want a pescatarian option For extra heartiness toss in a handful of frozen peas with the spinach If you prefer another leafy green try baby kale or arugula in place of spinach Steelhead trout fillets work beautifully if you cannot find good salmon

Serving Suggestions

Serve this one pan dinner topped with extra lemon wedges a handful of chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley or even a light sprinkle of toasted pine nuts This meal pairs well with a crisp salad on the side or some roasted asparagus for a colorful plate

Cultural or Historical Context

Orzo though it looks like rice is actually a short cut pasta and is a staple in many Mediterranean kitchens The pairing of fish with lemon and greens is inspired by classic Greek flavors where simplicity and clean bright tastes are celebrated in family style dishes

Common Queries

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, firm fish like cod or Arctic char work well. Adjust the cook time to ensure the fish remains moist and tender.

→ Is it possible to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! Vegetable broth makes this dish just as flavorful and keeps it suitable for pescatarians.

→ Should I use fresh or dried thyme?

Dried thyme offers a concentrated flavor for this dish, but fresh thyme can add a more aromatic touch if you have it on hand.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the salmon?

Pan-sear the fillets just until opaque and slightly firm to the touch, then remove them from heat while you prepare the orzo mixture.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

This dish is complete as is, but a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments.