This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and flavorful meal made in just one pan. Tender, flaky salmon is seared to perfection and paired with a creamy, lemon-infused orzo for a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more convenience.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
- Bright & Fresh Flavors – The lemony orzo perfectly complements the salmon.
- Healthy & Satisfying – Packed with protein and fresh ingredients.
- Customizable – Swap in your favorite veggies or seasonings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- Orzo pasta
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Lemon (juice and zest)
- Garlic (minced)
- Shallot (finely chopped)
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Heavy cream or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- Fresh spinach or asparagus (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
- Sear the salmon – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics – In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the shallot and garlic until fragrant.
- Cook the orzo – Add the orzo to the skillet and toast for a minute. Pour in the broth, lemon juice, and zest. Stir and simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Add creaminess – Stir in heavy cream (or Greek yogurt) and fresh spinach or asparagus if using. Let it cook for another 2 minutes.
- Return the salmon – Place the salmon back in the skillet, spooning some of the creamy orzo around it. Let it warm through for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish & serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese (if using), and red pepper flakes. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Lighter Version – Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
- Spicy Kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Vegetarian Option – Swap salmon for roasted chickpeas or tofu.
- Extra Veggies – Stir in peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or zucchini.
- Garlic Butter Version – Use more butter and garlic for a richer taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo creamy.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as the creamy orzo may separate.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Small pasta like couscous or ditalini works well.
Do I need to remove the skin from the salmon?
No, but if you prefer skinless salmon, you can remove it before or after cooking.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it completely before cooking.
What if my orzo absorbs too much liquid?
Add a little more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
How do I know when my salmon is done?
It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork, or reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan.
What other seasonings go well with this dish?
Try Italian seasoning, fresh dill, or a touch of smoked paprika.
Can I use another protein instead of salmon?
Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, or scallops work well.
What should I serve with this dish?
A side salad, roasted veggies, or crusty bread complement it perfectly.
How can I make this more lemony?
Add extra lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving.
Conclusion
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a simple yet elegant dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for a quick dinner. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this dish is sure to impress!
PrintOne Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
This One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a simple yet elegant meal featuring pan-seared salmon and creamy, lemon-infused orzo. Made in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect dish for busy nights!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Salmon
Pat dry the salmon fillets and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes, until crispy. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until cooked through.
Squeeze lemon juice over the salmon, then transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Lemon Orzo
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in orzo and toast for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
Pour in chicken broth, salt, and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using). Mix until creamy.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy!
Notes
Want a dairy-free version? Skip the Parmesan and cream or use coconut milk.
Prefer a veggie boost? Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the orzo.
Make it spicy! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orzo.