This tasty one skillet salmon with lemon orzo is a perfect dinner choice! The salmon is flaky and flavorful, paired with zesty lemon orzo that brings it all together.
It’s so easy to make, you can have dinner ready in no time. Plus, one skillet means less cleanup—who doesn’t love that? I always sneak in some extra lemon for a zesty kick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this dish. But if you’re on a budget, consider using canned or frozen salmon. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly if you’re using different types.
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta works well for texture, but you can swap it with any small pasta like couscous or ditalini. Quinoa is another great gluten-free option!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If it’s not available, you can use kale or frozen spinach — just thaw and drain the excess water.
Broth: Homemade broth is wonderful, but store-bought versions work just as well. Vegetable broth gives a lighter flavor, while chicken broth adds a bit more richness.
How Do You Get the Salmon Just Right?
Getting perfectly cooked salmon is key to this recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with salmon at room temperature for even cooking.
- Preheat your skillet well before adding the fish. This sears it beautifully.
- Cook the salmon skin-side down first if you’re using skin-on fillets, as it helps keep the fish moist. Aim for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Look for that nice golden color; it shows it’s cooked through without being dry. A little pink in the middle is okay!
One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off based on preference
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one skillet salmon recipe takes about 25 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, and the best part is that everything is made in one skillet, so you won’t have a mountain of dishes to wash after dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Salmon:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it heats, season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon in the skillet. Sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and has a beautiful golden brown crust. Once done, remove the salmon and set it aside on a plate.
2. Preparing the Orzo:
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, add the orzo to the skillet and toast it in the garlic butter for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently. This adds a lovely nutty flavor to the orzo.
3. Cooking the Orzo:
Now, carefully pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Adding Veggies and Flavor:
Once the orzo is ready, stir in the cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Lastly, add the lemon zest and lemon juice, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Give it a good stir to mix all those lovely flavors!
5. Finishing Touches:
Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet and let them sit on top of the orzo for 1-2 minutes to warm through. Finally, garnish everything with chopped parsley and serve with lemon slices on the side for that refreshing citrusy touch.
Enjoy your easy, flavorful meal where tender salmon pairs beautifully with creamy lemony orzo and fresh veggies — all made in one skillet for quick cleanup!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or place the sealed salmon in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Definitely! Whole wheat orzo is a great substitute and offers added fiber. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package directions for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo from drying out.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize the dish by adding other vegetables you enjoy! Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus would work beautifully. Just make sure they are cut into small pieces so they cook through in a similar timeframe.
