One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Oh wow, I’m so excited to share my One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. It’s so simple yet tastes amazing. I just made it last night and can’t wait to tell you about it.

When I cooked it, I loved how everything fit in one pan. The salmon and orzo come out so tender and yummy. Plus, there’s barely any cleanup.

I adore how the lemon flavor pops in every bite. It makes me feel happy and cozy. I want you to try it right away.

Grab a skillet, your salmon, and a lemon. Let’s do this together. You’ll love every bite, I promise.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together in one skillet — less mess, less stress.
• Bright & Comforting: Creamy orzo meets fresh lemon for a balanced, cozy, but light meal.
• Perfectly Flaky Salmon: Seared salmon fillets stay juicy and flavorful.
• Quick to Make: Ready in under 45 minutes with simple steps.
• Family-Friendly: Great for both kids and adults, and easy to adjust for more servings.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings:
This recipe serves 4 people as a complete meal.

Difficulty:
Easy enough for beginners but satisfying for home cooks who want to level up dinner.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet (12-inch or bigger, with lid)
• Tongs or spatula (for flipping salmon)
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microplane or zester (for lemon zest)
• Wooden spoon (for stirring orzo)

Ingredients for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Salmon Fillets: Skin-on or skinless, boneless fillets work.
• Salt & Black Pepper: To season the salmon and bring out all the flavors.
• Sweet Paprika: Adds gentle warmth and color to the salmon.
• Garlic Powder: For savory depth without overpowering the lemon.
• Olive Oil: For searing the salmon — keeps it moist and tender.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to both salmon and orzo.
• Yellow Onion: Finely diced to give sweetness to the orzo.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives that unmistakable flavor.
• Dry Orzo Pasta: Small rice-shaped pasta that gets creamy as it cooks.
• Dried Thyme: Earthy notes that balance the lemon and cheese.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth: Creates the base for the orzo and keeps it tender.
• Baby Spinach: Wilts into the orzo for a pop of green and extra nutrients.
• Lemon (Zest and Juice): Fresh, bright flavor that ties everything together.
• Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the orzo for creaminess and a nutty bite.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper & Chili Flakes (Optional): Adds gentle spice and contrast.

Variations for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

• Add Fresh Herbs: Try parsley, basil, or dill stirred into the orzo for an herbal lift.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Skip the parmesan and butter; use olive oil and a splash of coconut milk or dairy-free creamer.
• Use Different Fish: Swap salmon with cod, halibut, or even shrimp for variety.
• Add Veggies: Stir in peas, asparagus tips, or sun-dried tomatoes for more color and texture.
• Make It Spicier: Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne to give the dish a kick.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo — Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly.
Sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and garlic powder. Set aside while you prepare the skillet.

2. Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil and a little butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once hot, add salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on).
Cook for about 4-5 minutes, without moving them, until the skin (or underside) is crisp and golden brown.
Flip the salmon gently and cook another 3-4 minutes, until cooked through but still moist inside.
Transfer salmon to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

3. Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet (leave any browned bits — that’s flavor!), add the rest of the butter.
Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant.

4. Toast the Orzo

Add dry orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir it around for 1-2 minutes, letting it lightly toast. This adds a nutty flavor to the orzo.

5. Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in chicken broth and stir well, scraping up any bits stuck to the pan.
Add dried thyme and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Bring to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat slightly and cook uncovered, stirring often, for about 8-10 minutes, until the orzo is tender and creamy.

6. Stir in Spinach, Lemon, and Parmesan

Once orzo is cooked and most liquid is absorbed, stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted — about 1-2 minutes.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese, stirring until cheese melts into the orzo.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon if needed.

7. Return Salmon to Skillet

Place the seared salmon fillets on top of the orzo. Let them sit for 1-2 minutes so they warm through and soak up some flavor from the sauce.
Optional: Sprinkle with chili flakes or extra black pepper for a bit of heat.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

This dish is satisfying on its own, but here are a few ways to round out the meal or serve it beautifully:

• Garnish with Lemon Wedges: Add a few slices or wedges of fresh lemon on the side for an extra squeeze of juice right before eating.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or dill for a fresh, colorful finish.
• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well if you want something crisp alongside.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of toasted baguette to scoop up any creamy orzo left on the plate.

Storing One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftover salmon and orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the orzo. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between, to avoid drying out.

Can You Freeze It?

Freezing is not recommended, as the orzo can become mushy and the spinach may lose its texture.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Searing until just cooked through keeps it moist and tender. If the salmon feels firm when pressed, it’s done.
• Stir Orzo Often: Stirring while cooking helps prevent sticking and ensures creamy texture without clumps.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: Since parmesan and salmon can be salty, low-sodium broth helps balance the dish.
• Adjust Lemon to Taste: Add more or less lemon juice depending on how tangy you want it. You can also serve extra lemon wedges on the side.
• Let Salmon Rest: Allowing the salmon to rest after searing keeps the juices in, making each bite moist.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approximate)
Calories	480
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	8g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	3g
Sodium	520mg
Cholesterol	90mg

(Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
A: Yes, just be sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before seasoning and searing.

Q: What if I don’t have orzo?
A: You can substitute with small pasta like couscous or even rice, though cook times and liquid amounts may need adjustment.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: This dish is best fresh, but you can prepare the orzo ahead and reheat it gently with extra broth. Add the salmon just before serving to keep it moist.

Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Yes, skip the butter and parmesan. You can add a splash of coconut milk or olive oil for creaminess.

Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A: Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a meal that looks and tastes like something from a fancy restaurant but comes together easily at home. The creamy orzo with bright lemon pairs beautifully with tender, flaky salmon — all done in a single pan for easy cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for family or a special dinner, this recipe brings flavor, comfort, and elegance to the table without any fuss.