This One Skillet Salmon with Easy Lemon Orzo is a quick and tasty meal! The salmon is perfectly cooked and pairs beautifully with zesty lemon orzo.
You’ll love how fast it comes together, making it ideal for busy nights. Just one skillet means fewer dishes—yay for that! 🍽️
I enjoy adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. It’s so simple yet feels fancy enough for guests. Give it a try and impress your friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe; they’re tasty and cook nicely. If you can’t find fresh salmon, frozen works too—just thaw it properly before cooking. For an alternative, try chicken thighs or tofu for a different protein source.
Orzo: I like orzo for its quick cooking time and lovely texture. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with quinoa, rice, or any gluten-free pasta. They will change the flavor a bit, but still make a great base.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If you have other greens, such as kale or arugula, feel free to swap them in. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth makes the orzo flavorful. If you have homemade broth, that’s even better! You could also use plain water, but then consider adding more spices to boost flavor.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Salmon?
Cooking salmon can feel intimidating, but just a few tips can help you nail it! First, always start with dry salmon; this helps achieve a nice crispy skin. Season generously with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding oil—this is key for a good sear.
- Cook skin-side down first if it has skin; this adds that crispy edge.
- Avoid moving the salmon around too much; let it do its thing for even cooking.
- Check for doneness by gently flaking with a fork—it should be opaque and flake easily.
One Skillet Salmon with Easy Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and seasoning the ingredients, and then around 20 minutes cooking everything in one skillet. It’s a quick and simple recipe perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This will help them sear nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and once it’s hot, add the salmon fillets. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cook Aromatics and Orzo:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sauté it for about 2-3 minutes until it turns translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the orzo to the skillet, stirring for 1-2 minutes to toast it lightly, which will bring out its flavor.
3. Add Liquids and Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, along with the lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. After it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 9-11 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Add Spinach and Finish the Salmon:
Stir in the fresh spinach and, if you like a bit of kick, the red pepper flakes. Then, lay the seared salmon fillets on top of the orzo mixture. Cover again and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the spinach wilts and the salmon is fully cooked (it should look opaque and flake easily with a fork).
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and gently mix the orzo around the salmon to combine the flavors. If you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful One Skillet Salmon with Easy Lemon Orzo!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw your frozen salmon fully before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Make sure the salmon is patted dry before seasoning and cooking for the best results!
How Can I Make This Dish Lower in Carbs?
If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can substitute the orzo with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini. Adjust the cooking time accordingly—cauliflower rice will need only about 5-7 minutes to cook through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding other veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender and cooked properly!
