Go Back
If you’re searching for a meal that combines convenience, flavor, and health benefits, look no further than One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. This delightful dish brings together flaky salmon, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant greens in a single skillet, making it not just delicious but also a breeze to prepare and clean up. The recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Enjoy a delicious and quick dinner with this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe! Packed with flavor from sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh lemon, this dish combines tender salmon fillets and creamy orzo in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a complete meal with wholesome spinach and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve it warm, and don’t forget the lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness!

Ingredients
  

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skin-off

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup baby spinach

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

    Cook the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the lemon juice, zest, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.

      Add Spinach: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the baby spinach, allowing it to wilt into the mixture.

        Cook the Salmon: In a separate skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them, until the skin is crispy. Carefully flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

          Combine and Serve: Once the salmon is cooked, gently nestle it into the orzo in the first skillet. Add the butter to the orzo mixture and stir until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with additional lemon wedges on the side for drizzling.

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4