One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels special while being super easy to prepare, you’ve landed in the right spot! One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is one of those recipes that makes weeknight cooking feel like a breeze. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish combines perfectly seared salmon with zesty lemon orzo, vibrant spinach, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s become a family favorite in my home, perfect for busy evenings or when we want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in with your family, this meal fits the bill. Plus, it’s all cooked in one skillet—making cleanup as easy as the cooking itself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• All-in-One Dish: Everything cooks together in one skillet, saving time on both cooking and cleaning.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors are sure to please everyone at your table, even picky eaters!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and greens, this dish checks all the boxes for nutritious meals.
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or seasonings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You probably have most of them already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salmon

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 tsp salt (divided)
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Orzo

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth

For Finishing Touches

• 5 ounces baby spinach
• Juice from ½ lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• Chili flakes (for serving)

Variations

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a salmon fan, try this recipe with chicken breast or shrimp for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Change up the grains: Use quinoa or rice instead of orzo to mix things up while still keeping it easy!
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk towards the end for an extra rich sauce.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Get your prep done before jumping into cooking! Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince those garlic cloves. This will make everything flow smoothly once you start cooking. Plus, patting the salmon fillets dry ensures they get that nice sear.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add the seasoned salmon fillets and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step is crucial because it locks in flavor and keeps the fish tender.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Once the salmon is done, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Lower the heat to medium before adding garlic and onion. Sauté until soft and fragrant—about two minutes—because this brings out their natural sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.

Step 4: Toasting Orzo

Add dried thyme and seasonings before tossing in your dry orzo. Toasting it for about a minute gives it a nutty flavor that adds depth to our dish!

Step 5: Cook Orzo in Broth

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Then reduce to medium-low heat and let it simmer uncovered while stirring occasionally. This helps prevent sticking and ensures that all flavors meld nicely as it cooks until al dente—about eight minutes.

Step 6: Add Spinach & Finish Up

Stir in baby spinach until wilted—this takes just about two minutes! Then mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan; feel free to add more broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Combine & Serve

Return your salmon back into the skillet for another couple of minutes until warmed through. Finally, top off with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes for an extra kick! Now it’s ready to be enjoyed!

And there you have it—a delicious One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo that brings joy to any table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Cooking can be a breeze, especially with this delicious one-skillet recipe! Here are some tips to take your dish to the next level.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh salmon and vibrant spinach enhance the overall flavor and presentation of your dish. Freshness makes a noticeable difference in taste!
• Don’t overcook the salmon: Salmon is best when it’s cooked just until flaky but still moist. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
• Toast the orzo properly: Briefly toasting the orzo before adding the broth brings out its nutty flavor, making your dish even more delicious.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the salt and pepper levels based on your preference. This will ensure that each bite is just right for you!
• Make it colorful: Adding a variety of vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, not only increases nutrition but also adds visual appeal to your plate.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Presenting your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo beautifully can elevate your meal from simple to stunning! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to add an extra splash of citrusy goodness as they please.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, offering red pepper flakes as a garnish can give an exciting kick!

Side Dishes

• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus complements the richness of salmon while adding a fresh crunch.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm orzo dish.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and provides a savory bite that pairs well with salmon.
• Garlic bread: Soft garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy orzo sauce and adds a comforting touch to your dinner spread.

Enjoy serving this beautiful meal, knowing that it’s not only delicious but also nourishing for you and your loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner even on your busiest nights. Here’s how to store or prepare ahead of time.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze, it’s best to separate the salmon from the orzo before freezing.
• Place each component in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Heat until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the salmon.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish!

Can I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in advance?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above for best results.

What can I serve with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a light salad or some crusty bread for a more complete meal.

Can I use different types of fish instead of salmon?

Absolutely! While this recipe features salmon, you can easily substitute it with other firm white fish like cod or halibut. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the thickness of the fish.

Is One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo healthy?

Yes! This meal is packed with protein from the salmon and nutrients from spinach. It’s a balanced option that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

How do I ensure my salmon is cooked perfectly?

To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, aim for a slightly pink center when removing it from heat. It will continue cooking as it rests, resulting in tender, moist fillets.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo as much as I do! It’s not just a quick meal; it’s a delicious way to gather around the table and savor good food together. Remember, cooking should be fun and rewarding—so don’t hesitate to put your own spin on this recipe. Happy cooking!