This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and tasty meal! The perfectly cooked salmon pairs wonderfully with zesty lemon orzo, making each bite refreshing and bright.
I love how everything cooks in just one pan—fewer dishes to wash! Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe due to their rich flavor. If fresh is unavailable, frozen salmon works well too. Just remember to thaw it before cooking. A great alternative is using skinless firm white fish like cod or halibut.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is great for absorbing flavors. If you can’t find orzo, any small pasta—like ditalini or even brown rice—can substitute, but cooking times may vary.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: To keep it light, I prefer low-sodium broth. If you wish for more flavor, homemade broth is fantastic. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is perfect!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition, but you can substitute it with kale or arugula. If those aren’t available, frozen spinach is another option—just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a lovely burst of sweetness. If you don’t have them, chopped regular tomatoes work too. You can even use sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor!
How Do I Get the Salmon Just Right?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but here’s how to ensure it’s cooked perfectly!
- Start with a hot skillet and a bit of oil. This helps achieve a golden brown crust.
- Cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes on one side before flipping. You’ll know it’s ready when it lifts easily with a spatula and has a nice color.
- Cook the other side for slightly less time, about 2-3 minutes. The key is to remove it from heat when it’s just cooked through; it’ll continue cooking slightly from its own heat.
By keeping an eye on it, you’ll make sure your salmon stays moist and flaky without being overcooked!
One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the salmon, followed by around 10-12 minutes for the orzo and its toppings. Quick and easy, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets with a good pinch of salt and some black pepper on both sides. This adds great flavor right from the start!
2. Brown the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Allow them to sear for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes until just cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Next, pour in the orzo pasta and stir it around in the skillet for 1-2 minutes. This helps to toast the pasta slightly and gives it an extra layer of flavor.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. After it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking—you’re looking for it to be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
6. Add Veggies and Flavor:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach, quartered cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, lemon juice, and butter. Cook everything together just for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed!
7. Return the Salmon:
Carefully place the salmon fillets back in the skillet on top of the orzo. Let them warm through for a minute, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by garnishing your dish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness!
Enjoy your vibrant, delicious One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! It’s full of flavor and easy to make, perfect for any night of the week!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No problem! You can substitute orzo with any small pasta, such as ditalini or even couscous. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly depending on the pasta you choose!
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon and Orzo?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes while cooking or serve it with a spicy sauce on the side. You can also experiment with adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!