One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo: Fresh & Flavorful Delight
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a light yet satisfying meal that combines tender salmon fillets with citrusy orzo pasta. This dish is cooked in a single pan, making cleanup effortless while ensuring every bite is infused with bright lemon flavor and creamy texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it brings together simple ingredients like garlic, butter, and herbs for a restaurant-quality taste. The balance of zesty lemon and flaky salmon creates a refreshing and wholesome meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Enjoy a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner all in one skillet!
Ingredients Of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Why You Will Love This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
You’ll love this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo for its creamy, zesty flavor and effortless preparation. The orzo soaks up lemon and garlic, blending perfectly with buttery salmon for a luxurious yet healthy meal. It’s ideal for busy nights ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup and maximum taste.
Preparation Process Of One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Start by seasoning the salmon with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. In a skillet, sear the salmon until golden, then remove it. Sauté garlic in butter and oil, add orzo, and cook briefly before pouring in broth and cream. Stir until tender and creamy, then return the salmon. Finish with lemon juice and spinach for a fresh, bright finish.
Step By Step Instructions
Season the Salmon
Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Pat dry and let them rest while you heat the skillet to ensure a crisp sear and even cooking across each piece.
Sear the Salmon
Sear salmon skin-side down in hot oil until skin is deeply golden and crisp, then flip briefly to finish the top. Remove to a plate while you prepare the lemon orzo base.
Toast the Orzo
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, then stir in orzo and toast for a minute. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits to deepen the flavor.
Simmer with Cream & Spinach
Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream and lemon juice, cover and simmer gently until orzo is tender and creamy. Fold in baby spinach so it wilts and blends into the sauce evenly.
Finish and Serve
Return salmon to the skillet, nestling fillets into the orzo. Spoon sauce over them, sprinkle with parsley and lemon zest, rest one minute, then serve straight from the pan.
How to Serve?
- Serve warm straight from the skillet
- Top with extra lemon zest and parsley
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a light salad
- Add a sprinkle of parmesan for extra creaminess
- Serve with a chilled glass of white wine
Tips & Variations
Use whole wheat orzo for a healthier twist.
Swap salmon with shrimp or chicken.
Add feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy depth.
Use vegetable broth for a lighter version.
Top with chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutrition
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
Recipe Card
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Course: Dinner4 people
servings10
minutes20
minutes520
kcalOne Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a creamy, tangy, and wholesome meal that comes together in just one pan. Tender salmon fillets are paired with perfectly cooked orzo infused with lemon, garlic, and butter for a comforting yet refreshing dinner. The simplicity of this dish makes it perfect for weeknights, while the vibrant flavors make it special enough for entertaining. With its smooth texture and zesty notes, this meal is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that balances health and indulgence beautifully.
Ingredients
Salmon fillets
Orzo pasta
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic cloves (minced)
Lemon juice and zest
Chicken broth
Baby spinach
Heavy cream
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Directions
- Season the Salmon
- Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Pat dry and let them rest while you heat the skillet to ensure a crisp sear and even cooking across each piece.
- Sear the Salmon
- Sear salmon skin-side down in hot oil until skin is deeply golden and crisp, then flip briefly to finish the top. Remove to a plate while you prepare the lemon orzo base.
- Toast the Orzo
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, then stir in orzo and toast for a minute. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits to deepen the flavor.
- Simmer with Cream & Spinach
- Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream and lemon juice, cover and simmer gently until orzo is tender and creamy. Fold in baby spinach so it wilts and blends into the sauce evenly.
- Finish and Serve
- Return salmon to the skillet, nestling fillets into the orzo. Spoon sauce over them, sprinkle with parsley and lemon zest, rest one minute, then serve straight from the pan.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the orzo it should be tender but not mushy.
- Add lemon juice at the end for a brighter taste. Adjust cream to your desired consistency.
- Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s aroma and appeal.
FAQs
Conclusion
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo offers a perfect mix of simplicity, freshness, and elegance. The creamy orzo pairs beautifully with buttery salmon and lemony zest, creating a well-balanced meal. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish fits both quick dinners and special occasions. Serve it fresh from the skillet for a wholesome, heartwarming experience that tastes like a gourmet creation made right in your kitchen!
