One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe

If you are craving a dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, you will absolutely fall in love with this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. It combines perfectly seared salmon with a creamy, tangy orzo cooked right in the same pan for ultimate flavor harmony and minimal cleanup. The bright lemon zest and juice uplift every bite, while the spinach adds a lovely pop of color and nutrition. It’s an effortless way to impress your taste buds and anyone you share it with, turning an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, vibrant ingredients that come together beautifully. Each element plays an essential role in balancing taste, texture, and freshness, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser.

• Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, 6-ounce pieces for tender, flaky results that are the star of the dish.
• Olive oil: Helps sear the salmon to a golden crisp while adding a smooth richness.
• Salt and black pepper: Basic but crucial seasonings to enhance all flavors.
• Garlic powder and paprika: Add warmth and subtle depth to the salmon seasoning.
• Butter: Melts into the skillet to create a luscious base for cooking the orzo and garlic.
• Minced garlic: Infuses the dish with fragrant aroma and a punch of savory flavor.
• Orzo pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and becomes creamy and satisfying.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: Provides the liquid the orzo needs while boosting flavor complexity.
• Lemon juice and zest: Deliver bright citrus notes that make the dish feel fresh and lively.
• Baby spinach: Adds a tender, leafy contrast and a burst of vibrant green color.
• Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkled in for a hint of savory umami and creamy texture.
• Fresh parsley and lemon slices: Used as garnishes to brighten and elevate the final presentation.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Season and Sear the Salmon

Start by seasoning your salmon fillets generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Each spice adds a subtle layer of flavor that complements the rich fish perfectly. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the salmon, skin side down if you prefer. Let it sear for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until the exterior is beautifully golden and the salmon is cooked through but still tender inside. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside, keeping the skillet warm for the next steps.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Toast Orzo

In the same skillet, add butter and allow it to melt. Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté just for about a minute until it bursts with fragrance—be careful not to burn it. This step creates a wonderful flavor base for the orzo. Then add the orzo pasta straight into the skillet, stirring well so every tiny piece is coated in butter and garlic. Toasting the orzo briefly adds a nutty note that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo with Broth and Lemon

Now pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the fresh lemon juice and zest. These citrus elements are what truly make this recipe shine, lending a bright, tangy personality. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the orzo simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking. The orzo will absorb the flavorful broth and become luxuriously creamy, making this one of the most comforting parts of the dish.

Step 4: Incorporate Spinach and Parmesan

Once the orzo is tender and luscious, stir in the fresh baby spinach leaves. They will wilt quickly, adding a lovely splash of vibrant green and an earthy counterpoint to the lemon. If you love a cheesy touch, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese now and mix well to melt it into the creamy orzo. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed—this ensures every bite is perfectly balanced.

Step 5: Return Salmon to the Skillet

Finally, nestle the seared salmon fillets back on top of the lemon orzo in the skillet. The residual heat will gently warm the fish without drying it out, melding all the flavors together beautifully. To finish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and add a few lemon slices as garnish for a pop of color and extra zing.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and lemon slices are classic garnishes that bring brightness and visual appeal to this dish. The parsley adds a subtle herbaceous note, while the lemon slices encourage everyone to squeeze a bit more citrus on their salmon and orzo, lifting the flavors further.

Side Dishes

This meal is quite complete on its own, but if you want to add a little extra crunch or vegetable variety, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted asparagus pairs wonderfully. They help balance the richness of the salmon and orzo without overwhelming the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo directly from the skillet at the table, inviting everyone to dig in family-style. Alternatively, plate each salmon fillet on a bed of orzo, drizzling any pan juices over the top. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can also take the dish to restaurant-worthy levels.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 2 days to preserve the flavors and the texture of the salmon and orzo. Be sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

While you can freeze the salmon fillets and orzo separately if needed, the texture of the fish might change slightly after freezing. For best results, freeze leftovers in individual portions in a sealed container and consume within one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, covering the dish to retain moisture. Add a splash of broth or water if the orzo seems dry. This will ensure the salmon remains tender and the orzo creamy rather than drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for this recipe due to its size and texture, small pasta shapes like couscous or acini di pepe can work. Just adjust the cooking time since some pastas might take longer to become tender and creamy.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the orzo with a gluten-free pasta variety, such as quinoa pasta or a small gluten-free grain like rice or millet. Keep in mind the cooking times might vary with different grains.

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

You can, but for the best texture and flavor, fresh or fully thawed salmon is recommended. If using frozen, thaw completely in the fridge and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

What kind of broth should I use?

Either chicken or vegetable broth works perfectly. Choose low-sodium options if you want more control over the seasoning. Homemade broth will add even more depth and warmth.

Can I add other vegetables to the orzo?

Definitely! Chopped cherry tomatoes, peas, or roasted bell peppers can be stirred in with the spinach to add extra color, flavor, and nutrition. Just add these vegetables toward the end of cooking so they stay vibrant.

Final Thoughts

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a remarkable dish that combines ease with elegance, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special dinners alike. The balance of flavors, colors, and textures will have you coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds. I hope you give this recipe a try and let it become one of your favorites too. Happy cooking and bon appétit!