This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Dinner is a breeze to make! Juicy salmon fillets cook up beautifully alongside bright lemony orzo pasta in just one pan.
It’s the perfect dinner for busy nights. I love how everything cooks together, making clean-up super easy. Plus, the lemon gives it a refreshing kick that makes me smile! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor. If fresh isn’t available, frozen works too—just make sure to thaw it properly. You can substitute with chicken breasts or tofu for a different protein option.
Orzo: This small pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you don’t have orzo, you can swap in other small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or even rice. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on it!
Spinach: Baby spinach adds great nutrition and color. You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard, but note that you’ll need to cook them a bit longer until they’re tender.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is always better for flavor. You can also use lime juice for a twist!
Butter: Adds richness to the dish, but you can use olive oil as a substitute to keep it dairy-free. For a vegan version, coconut oil gives a nice hint of sweetness.
How Do I Get My Salmon Just Right?
Searing salmon perfectly can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it! Start by patting the salmon fillets dry to avoid steaming them in the pan. Season generously with salt and pepper just before cooking.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high and add olive oil until it shimmers.
- Place the salmon fillets in the pan skin-side down if they’re skin-on. Let them cook undisturbed for 4 minutes to form a nice crust.
- Flip carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The goal is to have a nicely cooked inside while keeping it moist, so don’t overdo it!
Once done, set the fillets aside while you finish up the orzo. They’ll warm back up nicely when you add them back at the end.
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless or skin-on, about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Orzo and Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Finishing Touches:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and approximately 25 minutes of cooking time. Overall, you’ll get a delicious and colorful dinner ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper generously. This small step makes a big difference in flavor!
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, gently place the salmon fillets into the skillet, skin-side down if they have skin. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes softened. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—this step smells amazing!
4. Cook the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta into the skillet, stirring well to coat it with the oil and aromatics. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice, then give it a good stir to combine everything.
5. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Add Spinach and Finish:
When the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh baby spinach, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and butter. Stir until the spinach wilts and the butter melts. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed!
7. Return Salmon to Skillet:
Gently nestle the seared salmon fillets back into the orzo mixture, letting them warm through for a minute or two. It’s time for those flavors to mingle!
8. Serve:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you wish. Serve this vibrant, hearty one-skillet dinner immediately and enjoy every bite!
This dish brings together tender, perfectly seared salmon with creamy lemon and garlic orzo alongside nutritious spinach—all cooked effortlessly in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold water before starting. Pat it dry well to ensure a nice sear.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No problem! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes, such as quinoa, couscous, or even rice. Just keep in mind that cooking time may vary—be sure to check for doneness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to revive the moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the orzo and cook the salmon separately in advance. Simply combine them and heat through when ready to serve for a quick meal!
