One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo

This one skillet salmon with lemon orzo is my favorite weeknight secret weapon. Tender salmon fillets sear up beautifully, while the orzo soaks up aromatic lemon and Parmesan for a rich and comforting meal—all in the same pan. With minimal cleanup and tons of flavor, it is truly a hands-off dinner perfect for busy evenings.

My family asks for this every time salmon goes on sale. The first night I served it, there was not a single bite left in the pan.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: choose fresh wild caught if you can for the best flavor and texture
• Salt: enhances everything and brings out salmon flavor
• Black pepper: use freshly cracked for a punchy bite
• Sweet paprika: gives the salmon a warm color and delicate sweetness
• Garlic powder: for an additional underlying flavor
• Olive oil: adds richness and helps sear the fish
• Unsalted butter: creates a silky base for the orzo
• Yellow onion: choose one that feels firm and heavy in your hand for sweetness
• Garlic cloves: mince fresh for maximum aroma
• Dry orzo pasta: go for traditional orzo for best results
• Dried thyme: adds a subtle earthiness
• Low sodium chicken broth: brings flavor without making the dish overly salty
• Baby spinach: look for bright green leaves without wilt for freshness
• Lemon: use a juicy one for vibrant flavor
• Grated Parmesan: always grate yourself from a block if possible for best melt
• Freshly ground black pepper: for serving
• Chili flakes: for serving if you like a little heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Ingredients:

Grate the Parmesan cheese using a fine grater. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves for an even sauté. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick. Season both sides of the salmon with garlic powder sweet paprika and half of the salt and pepper set aside.

Sear the Salmon:

Pour olive oil into a large nonstick skillet and heat with butter over medium high heat until shimmering. Gently add the salmon fillets. Let them cook undisturbed for three to four minutes per side so you get a golden sear. Once the salmon is cooked through to your liking remove it from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Sauté Aromatics:

Turn the heat to medium. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook for about two minutes until the mixture softens and smells fragrant. Stir in the dried thyme and remaining salt and pepper mixing well to distribute flavors.

Toast and Simmer Orzo:

Pour in the dry orzo and stir constantly for a full minute to toast the pasta gently this deepens its nutty flavor. Then pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat just enough to bring it to a gentle boil.

Cook the Orzo:

Once it boils lower the heat to medium low so the pan simmers gently. Cook uncovered and stir occasionally scraping the bottom to prevent sticking. Watch as the orzo absorbs most of the liquid and becomes almost al dente this usually takes about eight minutes.

Add Greens and Cheese:

Toss in the fresh spinach. Let it cook for about two minutes stirring until wilted. Mix in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan. If the mixture feels too dry you can add a splash more broth. Taste and check if it needs extra salt.

Finish and Serve:

Nestle the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet. Simmer for two to three minutes until the salmon is heated through. Serve hot right from the pan sprinkled with black pepper and chili flakes to taste.

Pin it

My favorite part is the Parmesan which melts into the orzo and becomes almost saucy. My kids love stirring the spinach in at the end and watching it disappear.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you reheat add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the creamy orzo and microwave gently in increments stirring every thirty seconds to preserve the salmon’s texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find orzo you can substitute small pasta shapes like ditalini or even pearl couscous. For a vegetarian version use vegetable broth and skip the salmon or try with seared tofu fillets. Baby kale works well in place of spinach if you want a heartier green.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this skillet straight from the pan at the table to keep clean up minimal. Add a fresh salad with cucumbers and tomatoes to brighten up the meal. A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon pairs beautifully if you want to make it special.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other firm fish like cod or trout. Adjust cooking time as needed to avoid overcooking.

→ What is the best way to get the salmon crispy?

Pat the fillets dry and use a hot skillet with both oil and butter. Avoid moving the salmon too soon, allowing a golden crust to form.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This meal is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

→ Which vegetables can I add besides spinach?

Try adding zucchini, peas, or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness and flavor. Adjust cook time as needed for different veggies.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free grated cheese alternative or omit the Parmesan for a lighter finish. Nutritional yeast also works well.