This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a tasty and easy meal! Fresh salmon fillets cook right in the same pan as the zesty lemon orzo, making cleanup a breeze.
I love how the bright lemon flavor pops alongside the salmon. Plus, you can have it ready in no time, leaving you more moments to relax and enjoy your meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this dish. If you’re short on time, you could use frozen salmon; just make sure to thaw it before cooking.
Orzo: This small pasta is perfect for absorbing flavors. If you can’t find orzo, feel free to substitute with another small pasta like couscous or quinoa for a different twist.
Spinach: Baby spinach lends a nice color and nutrition; however, if you prefer kale or Swiss chard, they work well too! Just chop them up and add them to the mix.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: If you’re looking for a lighter dish, use low-sodium broth. If you want a different flavor, you might try using white wine or even water, though the broth adds great depth.
Lemon: Fresh lemon is amazing, but you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just be careful with the amount, as it has a more concentrated flavor.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Getting salmon just right is key to this dish! The salmon should be seared on the outside while staying moist inside. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a medium-high heat to get a nice sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as that will cause steaming instead of searing.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side before flipping it. Look for a golden-brown color before you turn it over.
- Once flipped, the salmon cooks a bit faster. Check for doneness by pressing lightly—if it flakes easily with a fork, it’s done!
Taking these steps will help you achieve tender, juicy salmon every time!
One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup baby spinach (fresh)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced), plus lemon slices for garnish
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything in one skillet. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Salmon:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. While it’s heating, season your salmon fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown but not fully cooked inside. When done, remove the fillets and set them aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in your finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This step adds a wonderful base flavor to your dish!
3. Cook the Orzo:
Next, add the orzo to the skillet and stir it around for about 1 minute to coat it with the oil and flavors. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the lemon zest and juice. Bring everything to a simmer.
4. Simmer the Orzo:
Let the orzo cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta absorbs most of the liquid and becomes tender. Keep an eye on it to prevent sticking!
5. Add Spinach and Tomatoes:
Once the orzo is tender, stir in the cherry tomatoes and fresh baby spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the tomatoes have softened.
6. Finish Cooking Salmon:
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them gently on top of the orzo mixture. Cover the skillet and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked (it should be opaque and flaky).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To finish, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving. Enjoy your flavorful, one-skillet salmon dish!
This one-skillet dish combines perfectly seared salmon with tender, lemon-infused orzo and fresh vegetables—all cooked in one pan for effortless cleanup and a delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best methods are to place it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a quicker thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you can’t find orzo, you can easily substitute with another small pasta like couscous, farro, or even quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the alternative grain you choose.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the orzo and sauté the vegetables in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and then simply reheat on the stove while you cook the salmon to serve. It’s a great way to save time!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you reheat, add a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo from drying out, and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.