One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a fresh, bright, and easy dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfectly seared salmon sits on a bed of creamy, lemony orzo infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan. It’s a one-pan wonder you’ll come back to again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One Pan, Less Mess – Everything cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup.
Fast & Flavorful – A complete meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Rich in Protein & Whole Grains – Balanced and satisfying.
Bright & Creamy – Fresh lemon juice and Parmesan make the orzo creamy and tangy.
Perfect Weeknight Dinner – Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds

For the Lemon Orzo:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2¼ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tbsp butter for extra creaminess

Tools You’ll Need

• Large oven-safe skillet or deep sauté pan
• Spatula or fish turner
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zester or microplane
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Set aside while you prepare the skillet.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for 3–4 minutes without moving.
Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until golden and mostly cooked through.
Remove salmon from the skillet and set aside. (It will finish cooking later.)

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic & Toast the Orzo
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast for added flavor.

Step 4: Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer.
Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Finish the Orzo
Stir in Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and butter (if using).
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The orzo should be creamy, similar to risotto. If too dry, add a splash of warm broth.

Step 6: Return the Salmon & Garnish
Nestle the salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo.
Top each piece with a slice of lemon.
Cover and cook for 2–3 more minutes over low heat to heat the salmon through and infuse the dish with lemon aroma.

Tips for Success
Don’t Overcook the Salmon – It should flake easily and remain juicy inside.
Use Fresh Lemon – Fresh zest and juice make a huge difference in flavor.
Add Greens – Stir in spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking the orzo for extra nutrition.
Choose Low-Sodium Broth – This allows you to control the seasoning better.
Double the Orzo – Want leftovers? This recipe easily scales up.

Serving Suggestions
Roasted Asparagus – A great veggie side that complements the lemony flavor.
Garlic Bread – For soaking up any extra orzo.
Simple Arugula Salad – A peppery, fresh contrast to the creamy dish.
Sparkling Water with Lemon – A refreshing and light drink pairing.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as orzo and fish texture may not hold up well after thawing.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water.
Microwave: Warm in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
   Yes! Cod, trout, or tilapia work well. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
2. Is orzo gluten-free?
   Traditional orzo is not, but gluten-free versions are available at many stores.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Skip the Parmesan and butter, or use dairy-free alternatives. The lemon still adds great flavor.
4. What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
   Use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh zest is highly recommended for brightness.
5. Can I meal prep this recipe?
   Definitely! Store orzo and salmon separately and reheat gently for best texture.

Final Thoughts
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is fresh, comforting, and downright delicious. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can make in your own kitchen with minimal fuss. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual date night in, this dish delivers elegance and ease in every bite.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your version online and leave a review below—I’d love to see your creations!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American-Mediterranean

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 460 | Protein: 35g | Carbohydrates: 29g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 420mg

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