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Home » One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

July 4, 2025 by Maria Leave a Comment

Introduction

Did you know that searches for “easy one-pan dinners” have surged by over 200% in the last year? This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo recipe is the ultimate answer for busy weeknights. It combines tender, flaky salmon with creamy, citrusy orzo all in one pan—ready in under 30 minutes. It’s packed with protein, bright flavors, and just enough elegance to impress guests or elevate your average Tuesday.

Ingredients List

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or off, your choice)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

For the Lemon Orzo:

  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 small shallot, minced (or 1/4 cup onion)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream (optional for extra creaminess)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Substitution Tips:

  • Swap salmon with trout or cod.
  • Use rice or couscous if orzo isn’t available.
  • Replace Parmesan with feta for a tangy twist.

Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes

That’s 40% faster than the average salmon pasta recipe!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Salmon

Season salmon with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon skin-side down (if using) for 3–4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2–4 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt butter. Add shallots and garlic; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Stir in orzo and toast for 1 minute. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Stir in milk or cream (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until creamy and tender.

Step 5: Finish with Salmon

Return salmon to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Warm through for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4)

  • Calories: 510 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 420mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

  • Low-Fat: Skip cream and use low-fat milk.
  • Dairy-Free: Use olive oil and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
  • Low-Carb: Swap orzo with cauliflower rice.
  • High-Fiber: Add spinach or kale at the end.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with roasted vegetables or a crisp arugula salad.
  • Add a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or lemon-mint water.
  • Great for meal prep—stores well and reheats beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking salmon: Leads to dryness. Check internal temp: 125°F for medium.
  • Not stirring orzo: Can stick and cook unevenly.
  • Skipping lemon zest: You’ll miss half the flavor punch!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze orzo and salmon separately for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat: Microwave with splash of broth or water to maintain texture.

Conclusion

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is proof that quick and healthy meals can also be restaurant-quality. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and a perfect blend of creamy, zesty comfort.

Try it out and let us know what you think in the comments! Subscribe for more easy weeknight wonders.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: What if I don’t have orzo?
Use rice, pearl couscous, or small pasta like ditalini.

Q3: Can I make it without dairy?
Yes, just use olive oil and skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Q4: Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely—mild flavors and creamy texture make it great for families.

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