Description
Looking for a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-clean-up meal? This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is exactly what you need! Perfectly seared salmon rests on a bed of creamy, citrus-kissed orzo, all cooked in one pan for maximum flavor and minimum fuss. It’s a weeknight wonder that feels like a restaurant-quality dish.
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Ingredients
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
For the Lemon Orzo:
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1 cup orzo pasta
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup baby spinach (or kale, chopped)
½ cup frozen peas (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
Rub each fillet with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Set aside to allow the seasoning to absorb while you prepare the orzo.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy.
Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked—they’ll finish in the skillet later.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics & Toast Orzo
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a little more olive oil if needed.
Add garlic and shallot, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently for even browning.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in spinach and peas (if using), letting the heat wilt the greens.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, and butter. Stir until creamy and well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Finish with the Salmon
Nestle the seared salmon fillets on top of the lemon orzo.
Cover and let cook over low heat for another 2–3 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked through and flaky.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Enjoy right from the skillet or plate it up for a more elegant presentation.
Notes
Don’t Overcook Salmon – Pull it off the heat just as it turns opaque and flakes easily.
Toast the Orzo – Adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
Use Fresh Lemon – Bottled juice doesn’t offer the same brightness.
Stir Orzo Often – Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Creamy Finish – Butter and Parmesan add that luxurious, creamy texture without needing cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Mediterranean