One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a quick, flavorful, and perfectly balanced dish that combines flaky salmon fillets with a zesty lemon orzo. The one-skillet method makes it incredibly easy to prepare, and the flavors meld beautifully as the orzo absorbs all the savory juices from the salmon. With fresh lemon, garlic, and a light creamy touch, this meal is bright, satisfying, and ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo offers everything you need in a meal—protein, carbs, and veggies—all cooked in one pan. The salmon is perfectly seared and tender, while the lemony orzo is creamy and packed with flavor. The bright lemon and garlic elevate the dish, and the creamy texture of the orzo adds richness without being heavy. The best part is that it all cooks together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, as preferred)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, if preferred)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (plus extra for garnish)

• Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)

For the Lemon Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Salmon:

1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.

2. Cook the Salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if using skin-on. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.

For the Lemon Orzo:

1. Cook the Orzo: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) if needed, and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the orzo, ensuring it’s evenly spread out in the skillet. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.

3. Make it Creamy: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors combine and the sauce thicken slightly.

Combine and Serve:

1. Reheat the Salmon: Gently place the cooked salmon back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Drizzle with the lemon juice and warm everything together for about 2-3 minutes.

2. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, extra lemon slices, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Add spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes to the orzo for added flavor and nutrition. Simply stir them in with the cream and lemon juice for extra color and texture.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the orzo for a bit of spice that complements the lemony flavor.

• Grilled Salmon: Instead of pan-searing the salmon, grill the fillets for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon orzo.

• Herb Variations: Swap out thyme for rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile. Fresh dill also pairs wonderfully with salmon if you prefer a more classic flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or cream to keep the orzo moist and creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! You can use other small pasta shapes like couscous, farro, or even rice for a similar texture, though the cooking times may vary.

2. Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking for even cooking. You may need to cook them for a minute or two longer.

3. Can I use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes! You can use light cream, half-and-half, or even whole milk, though the sauce will be a little lighter in texture. If you use milk, the sauce may be thinner, so you might want to add a little cornstarch to thicken it up.

4. Can I make this dish without the lemon?

If you prefer a less citrusy flavor, you can reduce or omit the lemon juice and zest. You can substitute the lemon with a small amount of white wine vinegar for acidity if desired.

5. Can I add cheese to the orzo?

Absolutely! You can add grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of feta to the orzo for extra creaminess and flavor. Stir it in with the cream for a cheesy touch.

6. How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to check.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the orzo and sauce ahead of time and reheat it. Cook the salmon just before serving to keep it fresh.

8. Can I use other types of fish?

Yes! You can substitute the salmon with other fish like trout, cod, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

9. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or chili powder to the orzo or drizzle the dish with spicy sriracha for an added kick.

10. Can I use non-dairy alternatives for this recipe?

Yes, you can use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. You may also want to use a dairy-free butter alternative.

Conclusion

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a bright, satisfying, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner. The crispy, flaky salmon paired with the creamy, zesty lemon orzo creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Fresh, delicious, and full of vibrant lemon flavor, it’s a meal everyone will love!

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