One Skillet Salmon with creamy lemon orzo is an easy way to elevate your dinner routine. This dish combines the rich flavors of salmon with the comforting texture of orzo pasta, all cooked in one skillet. Not only does this recipe promise a delightful taste, but it also offers the convenience of minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder will satisfy your cravings without the hassle.
Why You’ll Love This One Skillet Salmon with
There are numerous reasons to adore this One Skillet Salmon with creamy lemon orzo dish. First, it’s a quick skillet salmon meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Second, it’s a healthy salmon skillet dinner packed with nutrients. The combination of salmon and spinach ensures you’re getting your daily vitamins and minerals. Third, it doubles as a simple one skillet salmon dish that requires minimal ingredients. You’ll also find that the orzo absorbs the rich flavors from the salmon and garlic, making it incredibly delicious. Lastly, it’s a versatile recipe that can easily be modified to suit your taste preferences, making it ideal for anyone looking to impress guests or family with a gourmet meal.

Ingredients for One Skillet Salmon with
Gather these items:
- 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Season salmon fillets on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes.
- Step 3: Flip salmon carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through.
- Step 4: Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
- Step 5: Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Step 6: Pour in orzo pasta and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Step 7: Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 8-10 minutes.
- Step 8: Stir in fresh spinach until wilted, then fold in Parmesan cheese if using.
- Step 9: Return salmon fillets to the skillet, nestle them into the orzo, and warm for 1 minute.
- Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect One Skillet Salmon with
Keep these in mind:
- For extra flavor, marinate salmon for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Substitute orzo with another pasta if desired.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- For a pan-seared salmon with vegetables, add your favorite veggies during the orzo cooking phase.
Best Ways to Serve One Skillet Salmon with
Here are a few ideas to enhance your meal:
- Serve alongside a mixed green salad for added freshness.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemony sauce.
- Consider a one pot salmon with rice for a heartier option.
How to Store and Reheat One Skillet Salmon with
To store leftovers, place the dish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions About One Skillet Salmon with
What is One Skillet Salmon?
One Skillet Salmon with refers to a cooking method where salmon is prepared in a single skillet along with other ingredients, allowing for a flavorful, cohesive dish. This technique minimizes cleanup and enhances flavor through combined cooking.
Can I make One Skillet Salmon with ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the orzo and salmon ahead of time and store them separately. Simply reheat and combine before serving for a quick meal.
How do I avoid common mistakes with One Skillet Salmon with?
To avoid overcooking the salmon, monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This will keep your salmon moist and tender.
Variations of One Skillet Salmon with You Can Try
Here are some creative twists to explore:
- One Skillet Salmon with Asparagus: Add asparagus spears to the skillet for a vibrant touch.
- One Skillet Salmon with Spinach: Incorporate more leafy greens for added nutrition.
- One Skillet Salmon with Garlic Butter: Drizzle extra garlic butter for a rich flavor boost.
For more delicious salmon recipes, check out this smoked salmon cucumber salad or creamy garlic crab stuffed mushrooms. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, try this molten lava chocolate cake recipe.
Print
One Skillet Salmon with Creamy Lemon Orzo Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Lemon Orzo Skillet Salmon: Easy One-Pan Wonder
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Season salmon fillets on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes.
- Flip salmon carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in orzo pasta and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in fresh spinach until wilted, then fold in Parmesan cheese if using.
- Return salmon fillets to the skillet, nestle them into the orzo, and warm for 1 minute.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate salmon for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Substitute orzo with another pasta if desired.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with orzo
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: One Skillet Salmon, Creamy Lemon Orzo, Easy Recipe