This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a fantastic meal that’s quick and easy. The salmon cooks perfectly while the orzo absorbs a zesty lemon flavor—yum!
Honestly, I love how little cleanup there is! Plus, this dish is so bright and fresh. I often whip it up when I want a tasty dinner without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this dish, offering a delicate flavor. If salmon isn’t available, try other fish like trout or even chicken breasts cooked for a similar time.
Orzo: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you don’t have orzo, you can use rice or couscous, though cooking times will vary, so check the package instructions.
Broth: Low sodium chicken broth adds depth to the orzo. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth. Homemade broth is great too—rich and flavorful!
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and adds color. Alternatives like kale or Swiss chard work too. Just be aware they might require slightly longer cooking time.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon just right ensures it stays moist and flavorful. Here’s how to do it without any fuss:
- Start with a hot skillet for an excellent sear, about 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden.
- Use medium-high heat but adjust it down if the oil starts to smoke.
- Don’t rush the flipping! Let it brown well before turning it over.
- Cook it just until it flakes easily with a fork. It will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the heat.
One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire dish takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep work, then around 15-20 minutes cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear! Generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the salmon fillets. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes without moving them until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Gently flip the fillets and let them cook for another 2 minutes. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Aromatics and Orzo:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing! Next, add the orzo pasta and stir it for about 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it. This step adds flavor!
4. Add Liquids and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and get it bubbling!
5. Cook the Orzo:
Let the orzo cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until it becomes soft and most of the liquid has evaporated. It should be creamy and a little al dente.
6. Add Tomatoes and Spinach:
Now, stir in the cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the spinach has wilted and the tomatoes are warm.
7. Return Salmon to the Skillet:
Place the salmon fillets back on top of the orzo mixture. Cover the skillet loosely with a lid and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This gives the salmon a chance to finish cooking and lets all the flavors combine!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish. For a nice touch, add lemon slices on top of each salmon fillet. Serve warm directly from the skillet and enjoy your delicious meal!
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful blend of flavors and colors, making it not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking for the best results.
Can I Substitute the Orzo with Another Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for this dish, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta or rice you choose.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to help bring back the creaminess of the orzo.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep some components ahead. You can cook the orzo and prepare the salmon, storing them separately in the fridge. Just combine and reheat gently for a quick dinner later!
