Busy moms, we know how precious your time is. When it comes to dinner, you want something quick, delicious, and nutritious. This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo delivers just that. With a burst of lemon flavor and tender salmon, this dish satisfies the whole family in under 30 minutes. Plus, it all cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy. You don’t need a long list of complicated steps to create a satisfying meal. Just a handful of simple ingredients come together to create a comforting dish. The one-skillet method allows you to spend less time on dishes and more time with your family. The salmon is not only a great source of protein but also packed with healthy fats. Kids love the creamy orzo and tender vegetables, making it a hit at the dinner table.
How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
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)
Directions
- 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 salt and pepper.
- Heat oil and butter over medium-high in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Add salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, and add garlic and onion. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme and the remaining salt and pepper. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil. To maintain a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered while stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking, until almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
- Add spinach, stir, and simmer until wilted for about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Add more broth, if needed. Taste and adjust salt.
- Return salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through.
- Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes. Enjoy!
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
A quick and nutritious one-skillet meal featuring tender salmon and creamy lemon orzo, ready in under 30 minutes.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
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
- Prep ingredients: Grate Parmesan, chop onion, mince garlic, and pat salmon dry. Season salmon with garlic powder, paprika, and salt/pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, then set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook garlic and onion until soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme, remaining salt, and pepper.
- Add orzo and toast for 1 minute, then pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Lower heat to medium-low and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until orzo is almost al dente, about 8 minutes.
- Add spinach, stir, and simmer until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan, adjusting salt as needed.
- Return salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve topped with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes.
Notes
Great with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For variation, swap salmon with shrimp or add vegetables like bell peppers or peas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to Serve
Serve this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo right from the skillet for a family-friendly meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for extra greens. A slice of crusty bread can also be a great addition for mopping up the creamy orzo.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 2 to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo if it thickens.
Tips and Variations
For a change, try using shrimp instead of salmon. The cooking time will be less, making it an even quicker meal. You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or peas to the orzo for added color and nutrition. If you want an extra kick, toss in some capers or olives when you add the spinach.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon before cooking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta. Cook as directed.
What other herbs can I use?
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley would work nicely. Feel free to experiment!
Conclusion
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo checks all the boxes for a fantastic family meal. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to save it for future busy nights!
