Name: One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 skinless salmon fillets; 1 tsp salt – divided; 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper – divided; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp unsalted butter; 1 yellow onion – finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves – minced; 1 cup dry orzo pasta; 1 tsp dried thyme; 3 cups low sodium chicken broth; 5 ounces baby spinach; juice from ½ lemon; ½ cup grated Parmesan; freshly ground black pepper; chili flakes

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Introduction

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a flavorful and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender salmon fillets are seared to perfection and served over creamy, lemon-infused orzo with spinach and Parmesan. It’s a satisfying dish that comes together all in one pan for minimal cleanup.

A white bowl is filled with a creamy orzo pasta mixed with green spinach leaves and small bits of red chili flakes and white cheese, creating a colorful base layer. On top of this sits a cooked salmon fillet with a golden-brown crust speckled with black pepper and red chili flakes, centered perfectly in the bowl. The bowl rests on a wooden surface that has been changed to a white marbled texture, adding a clean, bright background for the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 skinless salmon fillets
1 tsp salt, divided
1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper, divided
1 tsp sweet paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp unsalted butter
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup dry orzo pasta
1 tsp dried thyme
3 cups low sodium chicken broth
5 ounces baby spinach
Juice from ½ lemon
½ cup grated Parmesan
Freshly ground black pepper, for serving
Chili flakes, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare ingredients by grating the Parmesan, finely chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half of the salt and pepper.
Step 2: Heat olive oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove salmon from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and onion to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in thyme, remaining salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until orzo is almost al dente and most liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in baby spinach and simmer until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add lemon juice and grated Parmesan, stirring to combine. If needed, add more broth to adjust consistency, then taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 7: Return salmon fillets to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Step 8: Serve with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian option, omit the salmon and add more baby spinach or roasted vegetables instead.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the dish lighter or make it suitable for vegetarians (without salmon).
If you prefer a creamier orzo, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone at the end.
To enhance flavor, squeeze in extra fresh lemon juice just before serving.
Cook salmon skin-on if preferred, but adjust cooking time slightly and remove skin before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo moist. For best texture, consume within 24 hours.

How to Serve

A large, shallow white pan filled with four thick, golden-brown salmon fillets placed on a bed of light yellow orzo pasta mixed with bright green spinach leaves. The salmon has a crispy, pepper-speckled skin on top, contrasting with the soft texture of the pasta underneath. The orzo is well-coated in a glossy sauce, holding the small grains together, with the spinach scattered evenly in the dish. A wooden spoon with a dark handle rests in the pan near the top, partially covered by the pasta and spinach. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, enhancing the dish’s warm, fresh colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to get a better sear.

What can I substitute for orzo pasta?

If orzo is not available, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even couscous. Adjust cooking times as needed since they may vary.