One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner because it combines the richness of salmon with the bright, fresh flavors of lemon and herbs. The orzo is cooked in the same skillet as the salmon, soaking up all the flavors from the fish and creating a satisfying, well-rounded meal. Plus, it’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet but doesn’t require a lot of time or effort.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes.

5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and white wine (if using), stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Cover the skillet and cook the orzo for 10-12 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh parsley, and thyme. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

8. Gently place the salmon fillets on top of the orzo and sprinkle with grated Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein Add-ins: You can replace the salmon with other fish like tilapia or trout, or even chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time for different proteins.

• Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or roasted tomatoes to the orzo for added texture and flavor.

• Herb Variations: Try swapping fresh thyme with basil, rosemary, or oregano for a different flavor profile.

• Cheese Variations: Instead of Parmesan, you can use feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the orzo and salmon in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the orzo if it has thickened. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.

What if I don’t have white wine?

If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute with more broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

Can I make this recipe with other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or farro. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can omit the butter and Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free alternative for the cheese, or simply skip the cheese altogether for a lighter, dairy-free version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the salmon is best cooked fresh, you can prepare the orzo ahead of time. Store the cooked orzo in the fridge for up to 2 days and then reheat with a little broth before serving with freshly cooked salmon.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for the flesh to be opaque and firm.

Can I add vegetables to the orzo?

Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, peas, asparagus, or roasted cherry tomatoes would all pair beautifully with the lemony orzo.

What can I serve with this dish?

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a complete meal on its own, but you could serve it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the orzo while it’s cooking or top the finished dish with a spicy sriracha sauce or chili oil.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh thyme and parsley. Use about 1/3 of the amount specified for fresh herbs (1 teaspoon dried thyme and 1 tablespoon dried parsley).

Conclusion

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick, flavorful, and wholesome dish that brings together tender salmon and bright, zesty orzo in one easy skillet. It’s the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and fresh flavors, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Plus, with minimal cleanup, this recipe makes weeknight dinners effortless and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish will impress everyone with its simplicity and taste.