One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo

This one-skillet salmon with lemon orzo has transformed my weeknight dinner routine. The combination of perfectly seared salmon atop creamy, lemony orzo studded with wilted spinach creates a restaurant-worthy meal without the fuss. After discovering this recipe last summer, it's become my most requested dish when friends come over for a casual dinner.

I first created this recipe when trying to impress my partner with something special yet manageable after a long workday. The look on their face when I brought this colorful, aromatic dish to the table convinced me it would become a regular in our rotation.

Ingredients

• Skinless salmon fillets: choose fresh, center-cut pieces with vibrant color and firm texture for best results
• Salt and black pepper: these basic seasonings enhance the natural flavors of both the salmon and orzo
• Sweet paprika: adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the salmon
• Garlic powder: provides convenience and even flavor distribution on the salmon
• Olive oil and butter: the combination gives you both high heat cooking ability and rich flavor
• Yellow onion: forms the aromatic base of the orzo creating depth of flavor
• Fresh garlic cloves: always preferable to pre-minced for their vibrant flavor
• Dry orzo pasta: this rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully
• Dried thyme: infuses the dish with earthy, herbaceous notes
• Low sodium chicken broth: allows you to control the saltiness while adding richness
• Baby spinach: wilts perfectly into the orzo adding color, nutrition and texture
• Fresh lemon juice: brightens the entire dish with essential acidity
• Parmesan cheese: creates a creamy finish and savory depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Work:

Gather and prepare all ingredients before you start cooking. Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels this ensures proper searing and prevents sticking. Season both sides of the salmon with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half of your salt and pepper, pressing gently to adhere.

Sear The Salmon:

Heat olive oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is foaming but not brown. Place salmon fillets presentation side down first and sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip carefully and cook another 3-4 minutes. The salmon should be just slightly underdone in the center as it will finish cooking later. Remove to a clean plate.

Build The Flavor Base:

Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the same pan, scraping up any salmon bits with your spatula these contain incredible flavor. Cook onions for about 2 minutes until translucent but not browned. Add minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant but not brown, which would create bitterness.

Toast The Orzo:

Add dried thyme and remaining salt and pepper, stirring to combine with the aromatics. Add dry orzo to the pan and stir constantly for one full minute. This crucial toasting step adds a nutty dimension to the finished dish and helps the orzo maintain its texture during cooking.

Simmer The Orzo:

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any stuck bits. Reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer and cook uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the liquid and be nearly al dente.

Add The Greens And Cheese:

Add fresh spinach in batches if necessary, stirring until wilted into the orzo. Stir in fresh lemon juice and grated Parmesan, which will create a silky, creamy texture. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash more broth until you reach a loose, creamy consistency.

Finish The Dish:

Return the salmon fillets to the pan, nestling them into the orzo. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the salmon is warmed through and fully cooked. The residual heat will finish cooking the salmon without overdoing it, keeping it moist and tender.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the moment when the Parmesan melts into the orzo creating that irresistible creamy texture. My family knows dinner is almost ready when they smell the combination of garlic, lemon and herbs wafting through the house, and they always come running to the table without being called twice.

Perfect Pairings

This one-skillet wonder stands beautifully on its own, but for a special occasion, consider serving it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens complement the richness of the salmon perfectly. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay makes an excellent beverage pairing, cutting through the richness of the dish.

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Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to a skillet, add the leftover dish, and warm gently over medium-low heat until just heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible as this can overcook the salmon and make it tough.

Ingredient Swaps

No salmon available? Try this recipe with boneless chicken thighs or quick-cooking shrimp instead. The cooking method will need slight adjustments, but the flavor profile works beautifully with these proteins. If spinach isn't your favorite, try baby kale, arugula, or even frozen peas added during the last few minutes of cooking. Feta cheese can replace Parmesan for a tangier Mediterranean twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use another type of fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other firm fish like cod, halibut, or even trout. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

→ How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Keep stirring the orzo occasionally while it simmers and make sure there's enough broth in the skillet during cooking.

→ Can this dish be made dairy-free?

Yes, you can skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing.

→ What can I serve with this skillet dish?

It's a complete dish as is, but you can serve it alongside a crisp side salad or a slice of crusty bread for an added touch.

→ Does the dish work for meal prep?

Yes, this dish reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to prevent the orzo from drying out.

→ Can I substitute spinach with another green?

Absolutely! You can use kale, arugula, or Swiss chard as substitutes for spinach. Adjust the cooking time as needed since firmer greens may require more time to wilt.