One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick and delicious dinner that’s packed with bright citrus flavors. The flaky salmon is cooked to perfection alongside zesty lemon orzo, making for an easy, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp capers (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon, skin-side down (if using skin-on), and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Orzo: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tbsp of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the orzo and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally and cook the orzo for about 8 minutes, or until al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. If the orzo needs more liquid, add a bit more broth or water as needed.
- Make the Lemon Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and simmer for another 1-2 minutes. Add the remaining butter and grated Parmesan (if using) to the orzo and stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Assemble: Gently place the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- You can easily swap the salmon with another fish like trout or cod if preferred.
- For a lighter version, skip the heavy cream and use more broth instead.
- Capers can be added for a briny kick, or you can substitute with olives for another flavor twist.
Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/one-skillet-salmon-with-lemon-orzo/
