One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo

This one skillet salmon with lemon orzo is a weeknight favorite I turn to when I crave something bright and comforting but do not want a sink full of dishes. The salmon gets pan-seared and set aside while orzo cooks in garlicky pan juices with spinach and plenty of lemon making the pasta creamy and full of flavor. It is all done in a single pan with basic ingredients and minimal prep.

The first time I made this I was truly surprised by how much my family raved about the creamy lemony orzo and now it is our go-to easy meal when we need something everyone will eat.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: the star of the dish look for firm fresh pieces with a mild scent
• Salt: brings out natural flavors in the salmon and the orzo use a fine sea salt if possible
• Coarsely ground black pepper: adds a touch of heat cracked fresh is best
• Sweet paprika: adds smoky sweetness seek out high quality for more depth
• Garlic powder: seasons the salmon evenly opt for fresh for intense flavor
• Olive oil: creates a crispy sear on salmon and enhances richness choose extra virgin for best taste
• Unsalted butter: adds creamy notes to the orzo use real butter for best results
• Yellow onion: brings subtle sweetness to the base select ones that are heavy and firm
• Garlic cloves: give bold flavor to the orzo and spinach go for firm plump cloves
• Dry orzo pasta: becomes creamy and tender as it cooks in broth check packages for golden color
• Dried thyme: gives an herbal lift use recently purchased dried herbs for potency
• Low sodium chicken broth: lets you control sodium while adding savory richness
• Baby spinach: wilts down quickly adding color and nutrition choose fresh deep green leaves
• Lemon juice: brightens the dish and cuts richness pick a heavy lemon for more juice
• Grated Parmesan: adds salty creaminess freshly grated makes a big impact
• Freshly ground black pepper: brings extra sharpness at the end use just before serving
• Chili flakes: optional for a hint of gentle heat choose according to your spice level

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season The Salmon:

Season the salmon fillets with salt black pepper sweet paprika and garlic powder on both sides gently pressing the seasoning so it sticks well to the surface

Sear The Salmon:

In a large deep skillet heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering Place salmon pieces skin side up and sear about three minutes per side or until a golden crust forms Remove to a plate and set aside

Sauté The Aromatics:

Add butter to the same skillet and let it melt Stir in chopped onion and sauté over medium heat for four to five minutes until soft and translucent Add minced garlic and cook for another minute stirring often until fragrant

Toast The Orzo:

Add orzo pasta and dried thyme to the pan Stir constantly for two minutes so the orzo is glossy and toasty this adds a nutty base to the final dish

Simmer The Orzo:

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan Stir well Lower the heat cover and cook eight to ten minutes stirring occasionally until orzo is just tender and broth is mostly absorbed

Add Spinach and Lemon:

Fold in the baby spinach and let it wilt down for one minute Squeeze in fresh lemon juice to brighten everything up

Return The Salmon and Finish:

Nestle salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo Cover and let everything warm through for about three minutes Sprinkle with Parmesan and more pepper give it a gentle stir and serve immediately

Save This

For me the sharp Parm and fresh lemon make this dish pop I will never forget my daughter helping me stir the orzo for the first time with her tiny hands so proud to help with dinner

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before storing Seal in airtight containers and keep in the fridge for up to two days When reheating add a splash of broth to loosen the orzo so it keeps that creamy texture Avoid microwaving the salmon too long to prevent drying

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap baby spinach for chopped kale if you want extra greens use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version Feel free to try trout or cod if salmon is not available For dairy free use a sprinkle of nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and olive oil for butter

Serving Suggestions

Serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to round out the meal Warm bread or focaccia on the side helps soak up the zesty orzo If you want to make it more special garnish with fresh herbs or a few toasted pine nuts

Cultural and Historical Context

Orzo though it looks like rice is a tiny pasta beloved across Mediterranean kitchens Cooking it like risotto is a classic Italian trick for creamy results Lemon and fish is a flavor combo found all around the coastal regions and brings brightness traditional to many Greek and Italian meals

Common Queries

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other sturdy fish like cod or trout, adjusting cook time as needed.

→ What type of orzo works best?

Regular dry orzo is ideal, as it soaks up the broth and flavor. Whole wheat orzo may be used for extra fiber.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

Add chopped zucchini, bell pepper, or peas when sautéing the onions for extra color and nutrition.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Simply omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. The dish will still be flavorful and creamy from the orzo.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

For best flavor and texture, serve freshly made. Leftovers can be gently reheated with a splash of broth.