One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

If you’re looking for a meal that’s simple yet oh-so-delicious, you’ve landed on the right recipe! This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a true gem in my kitchen. It combines the rich flavors of pan-seared salmon with the bright zest of lemony orzo, creating a dish that’s comforting and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this all-in-one recipe makes dinner not just easy but enjoyable.

I love how quickly everything comes together in one skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash and more time to relax. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach and Parmesan that add both nutrition and flavor. Trust me; everyone at your table will be raving about this meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a delicious dinner that looks and tastes gourmet.
• One Pan Wonder: No need to juggle multiple pots—everything cooks together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: With its tasty flavors and comforting ingredients, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutrients from salmon and spinach, this meal keeps you feeling good without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! Each element plays a key role in creating that perfect combination of flavors.

For the Salmon

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 tsp salt (divided)
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Orzo & Spinach

• 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

For Garnish

• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• chili flakes (for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you want to switch things up a bit, here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try using chicken breast or shrimp instead for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra creamy texture if that’s your style.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil or dill to give it your own twist.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Get your prep done before you start cooking: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper. This step ensures that every bite is flavorful!

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet. Once hot, add the salmon fillets to sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side. This creates a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside tender. After searing, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium and add your chopped garlic and onion to the same skillet. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant—about 2 minutes. This process enhances their sweetness and builds an aromatic base for your dish.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Stir in dried thyme along with the remaining salt and pepper before adding your dry orzo pasta. Toasting it for about one minute is crucial as it brings out its nutty flavor.

Step 5: Add Broth & Simmer

Now pour in the low-sodium chicken broth; bring it all to a boil! Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low so it maintains a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally until most of the liquid is absorbed—this should take about 8 minutes.

Step 6: Incorporate Spinach & Cheese

Add in your baby spinach next; stir until wilted—this takes just about 2 minutes. Finally, mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. If it’s looking too thick, feel free to add more broth until desired consistency is reached!

Step 7: Reintroduce Salmon

Return those gorgeous salmon fillets back into the skillet and let them simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. This allows all those wonderful flavors to mingle together perfectly.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Top your dish off with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes for an extra kick if you’d like! Serve warm and watch as everyone digs into this delectable One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Cooking can be a joy, especially when you have a few tips up your sleeve to make your experience even smoother! Here are some handy tricks to ensure your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and vibrant spinach will enhance the flavors of the dish. They not only taste better but also provide a burst of nutrients!

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Keep an eye on the salmon while it’s cooking. Perfectly cooked salmon should still be slightly pink in the center for optimal tenderness. This prevents it from becoming dry and tough.

• Taste as You Go: Adjusting seasonings during cooking allows you to customize flavors to your preference. Don’t hesitate to add more lemon juice or spices if you feel it needs a little extra zing!

• Let the Orzo Absorb Flavors: Stirring occasionally while the orzo cooks helps it absorb all the delicious broth and seasonings, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap out or add herbs like fresh basil or dill for a unique twist on this classic dish. Fresh herbs can brighten up the overall taste and bring new life to your meal.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Presentation is key when serving up this delightful dish! A beautifully arranged plate will not only impress your guests but also enhance their dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving style.

Garnishes

• Lemon Wedges: Placing lemon wedges on the side adds a pop of color and gives everyone the option to squeeze fresh juice over their salmon.
• Fresh Herb Sprigs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill can brighten up your dish while adding freshness that complements the lemony flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted asparagus adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with salmon.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast without overpowering the main dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent side for scooping up any leftover orzo, making each bite even more delightful.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only looks appealing but also adds fiber and vitamins, making it a nutritious complement to this meal.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for an effortless yet impressive dining experience! Enjoy every moment spent around the dinner table with this tasty One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully, making leftovers just as delicious as when freshly cooked.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty recipe!

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While this recipe features orzo, you can substitute it with any small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

How do I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo more flavorful?

To amp up the flavor profile of your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill at the end. A sprinkle of lemon zest before serving will also brighten up the dish!

What side dishes pair well with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but if you’d like a side, consider serving a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! It’s a wonderfully simple yet flavorful dish that brings everyone together at the table. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s perfect for busy nights or a cozy dinner at home. Happy cooking, and may each bite bring you joy!