One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. It’s so easy to prepare and packed with flavors that everyone at the table will love it. The combination of pan-seared salmon paired with zesty lemon orzo, spinach, and Parmesan makes for a delightful meal all cooked in one skillet. What could be better than that?

This dish is also perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty yet simple. Plus, it’s a great way to get your family to eat more fish without any fuss. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this wonderful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: You can whip this dish up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• One skillet wonder: Less clean-up means more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.
• Family-friendly: With its delicious flavors and comforting ingredients, everyone will ask for seconds!
• Healthy goodness: Packed with protein and greens, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t sacrifice taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need for this delightful dish!

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 the 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

What I love about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts or shrimp instead of salmon for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for an extra burst of color and flavor.
• Change the grain: If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute orzo with quinoa or farro for a heartier base.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh dill or parsley can add a lovely touch if you’re looking to switch up the flavors!

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Get your prep done before you start cooking: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper. This step ensures that each bite is flavorful from the very beginning!

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Once hot, add the salmon fillets to sear them beautifully—about 3-4 minutes per side should do it! Removing them from the skillet later allows us to build layers of flavor without overcooking the fish.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Reduce heat to medium and add garlic and onion to the same skillet. Cook until soft and fragrant—about 2 minutes—stirring occasionally. This step is key because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, which enhances our dish’s overall flavor profile.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Stir in thyme along with the remaining salt and pepper before adding dry orzo. Toasting it for about 1 minute helps deepen its flavor before we add liquid.

Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Then reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer while stirring occasionally. Cook until almost al dente—this should take about 8 minutes—allowing most of the liquid to absorb while stirring prevents sticking.

Step 6: Incorporate Spinach

Once your orzo is nearly done, add baby spinach. Stir well until it’s wilted; this will take just about 2 minutes! Stirring in lemon juice and Parmesan afterward adds such creamy richness; feel free to adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Return Salmon & Serve

Finally, return your salmon fillets back into the skillet. Simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes until heated through again. Top everything off with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes for some extra zing!

And there you have it! A delicious One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo ready to be enjoyed—perfectly comforting after a long day!

Pro Tips for Making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Cooking can be a breeze when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some suggestions to ensure your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep Ahead: Having everything chopped and measured before you start cooking saves time and reduces stress during the cooking process. This way, you can focus on enjoying the moment rather than scrambling to find ingredients!

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the salmon, make sure there’s enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing, resulting in less crispy skin and more of a cooked-through texture.

• Taste as You Go: Different brands of broth can vary in saltiness, so taste your dish at various stages. This allows you to adjust seasoning as needed, ensuring a well-balanced flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach and quality salmon fillets. Fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the taste and nutritional value of your dish.

• Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is delicious, don’t hesitate to switch it up! Fresh dill or parsley could add a delightful twist that complements the lemon and salmon beautifully.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Presentation is key to making any meal feel special! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest adds an aromatic touch and emphasizes the citrus flavors in the dish.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or dill over the top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the meal.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A final dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also gives a lovely visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus tossed in olive oil and lemon juice makes for a crisp, vibrant side that complements the richness of the salmon.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette brings freshness and crunch that balances out the creamy orzo.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic offer a hearty side that pairs beautifully with fish.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread is always a hit; it’s perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left on your plate!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo will be not just a meal but an experience everyone will love. Enjoy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this dish ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salmon and orzo in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Keep the salmon separate from the orzo if possible, to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may change slightly after thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious dish? You’re in the right place!

Can I use another type of fish instead of salmon in One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

Absolutely! You can substitute salmon with other firm fish like trout or tilapia. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the thickness of the fillets.

What makes One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo a great choice for busy nights?

This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

How can I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo healthier?

You can swap in whole grain orzo for added fiber and nutrients. Additionally, consider using less cheese or opting for a lighter cheese alternative if desired.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo as much as I do! It’s a delightful dish that brings together flavors everyone loves while being easy enough for busy weeknights. Don’t hesitate to try it out and share your thoughts—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!