Description
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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Ingredients
For the Salmon:
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4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds
For the Lemon Orzo:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup orzo pasta
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2¼ cups chicken or vegetable broth
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: 1 tbsp butter for extra creaminess
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.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Mediterranean