“`html
If you are looking for a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal that brings together fresh seafood and vibrant citrus notes, this One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe is an absolute must-try. It perfectly balances the rich, flaky salmon with a creamy, bright orzo infused with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, all cooked effortlessly in one pan. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a time-saver for busy weeknights when you want impressive homemade flavors without the fuss of multiple pots and pans.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role, combining simplicity with flavor to elevate the dish. From perfectly seasoned salmon to the creamy orzo bursting with lemon and herbs, each element adds texture, color, and layers of taste that make this meal so irresistible.
- Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for that delicious crispy skin and tender flesh.
- Olive oil: Used for searing the salmon and sautéing the aromatics, it’s key for rich flavor without heaviness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavors.
- Garlic powder and paprika: These spices add smoky warmth and depth to the salmon seasoning.
- Onion: Finely chopped and softened to build a sweet, savory base for the orzo.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic brings a punchy aroma that complements the lemon zest and thyme.
- Orzo pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavorful liquids perfectly.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid that cooks the orzo and infuses it with savory notes.
- Heavy cream: Added at the end for a luscious, creamy texture that ties the dish together.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest: These brighten the orzo with a fresh, citrusy zing.
- Dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal touch that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
- Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this sharp, salty cheese enriches the creamy orzo.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness at the end.
- Lemon wedges: Served on the side for an extra squeeze of tang, perfect for salmon lovers.
How to Make One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Salmon
First things first, generously season your salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. These simple spices give the fish a wonderful flavor foundation. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then place the salmon skin-side down. Sear it for about 4 to 5 minutes until the skin crisps up nicely and the salmon releases easily from the pan. Flip carefully and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and golden. Remove the salmon and set it aside—don’t worry, it will join the party again soon.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Prepare Orzo
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon more olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it soften for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t brown too much. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just a minute until fragrant. This aromatic base is where all the magic starts for our lemon orzo.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo and Simmer
Add the orzo pasta into the skillet with the onion and garlic, stirring to coat the tiny pasta pieces in oil for 1 to 2 minutes. This step adds a lovely nutty flavor to the orzo. Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite and most of the liquid has absorbed.
Step 4: Creamy Lemon Finish
Turn the heat down to low and stir in the heavy cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, and a bit of salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the creaminess to develop and the bright citrus flavors to meld through the orzo. This step turns the pasta silky and luscious, making it the perfect foil for the richness of salmon.
Step 5: Add Cheese, Herbs, and Return Salmon
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, stirring until everything is evenly combined. Parmesan adds that final umami kick, while parsley keeps the dish feeling fresh and vibrant. Now, gently nestle your cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet right on top of the lemon orzo. This lets the flavors mingle again and keeps everything warm until you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle extra chopped parsley over the salmon and orzo. A few lemon wedges on the side allow everyone to customize the brightness to their liking. A little sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before eating adds subtle heat and aroma, making each bite a sensation.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite complete on its own, but if you want to round out the meal you could serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted seasonal vegetables. Lightly steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach complement the lemony notes and add a fresh, green crunch. Simple garlic bread also pairs wonderfully to soak up any leftover creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting family dinner, serve the One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe straight from the skillet—this adds a cozy, rustic charm. If you want to impress guests, plate each salmon fillet over a generous bed of orzo, then drizzle a little pan sauce around the edges. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to elevate the presentation to restaurant-worthy style without extra effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover lemon orzo and salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. The orzo may thicken as it chills, but this can be refreshed easily with a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Freezing
Freezing cooked salmon is always a little tricky because the texture can change, but you can freeze the orzo separately for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a bit of liquid to restore creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the lemon orzo in a skillet over low heat, adding a tablespoon or two of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Gently reheat the salmon either alongside or separately to avoid overcooking. This helps keep the salmon moist and the creamy orzo perfectly luscious the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon works just fine, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and cooking. This will help achieve that nice crispy skin and prevent steaming instead of searing.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and swap Parmesan cheese for a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy flavor.
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
While orzo is ideal for its small shape and quick cooking time, you can experiment with other small pasta like acini di pepe or even small shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the onions and garlic, or sprinkle some smoked paprika with a bit of cayenne in the salmon seasoning for a nice smoky heat.
What wine pairs well with One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe?
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the citrusy, creamy flavors beautifully, helping to balance the richness of the salmon and cream.
Final Thoughts
This One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe is one of those dishes that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with vibrant, comforting flavors. It’s quick enough for weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve guests without stress. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—it’s one of those simple pleasures that turns a meal into a celebration. Go ahead and give it a try soon; your taste buds will thank you!
“`
Print
One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delightful, quick, and easy meal perfect for weeknight dinners. The salmon fillets are seared to perfection in a skillet, then combined with creamy, lemon-infused orzo that’s cooked right in the same pan. A touch of garlic, paprika, fresh parsley, and Parmesan cheese enhances the flavors, making this dish bright, fresh, and satisfying without the need for multiple pots or pans.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Lemon Orzo
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (200 g) orzo pasta
- 2 cups (475 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Season the Salmon: Sprinkle the salmon fillets evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to build a flavorful crust.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the salmon is golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and heat over medium. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Toast the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it with the oil and aromatics. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta, enhancing its flavor.
- Cook Orzo: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make It Creamy: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Reintroduce Salmon: Nestle the salmon fillets back into the skillet on top of the lemon orzo to warm them through gently.
- Serve: Garnish with extra parsley and serve the dish warm with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
Notes
- For best results, use skin-on salmon fillets for crispiness and flavor.
- Feel free to substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian-style, but omit the salmon.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste if you prefer a more tart or mild lemon flavor.
- Make sure to stir the orzo occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.
