Looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner idea? This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the perfect 30-minute meal! Tender, flaky salmon is pan-seared to perfection and paired with lemony orzo, wilted spinach, and savory Parmesan — all made in one skillet. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- One pan = easy cleanup: Less mess, more flavor.
- Bursting with flavor: Zesty lemon, garlic, and Parmesan make every bite pop.
- Healthy & satisfying: Loaded with omega-3s, fiber, and leafy greens.
- Quick & efficient: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spice it up with chili flakes.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet
- Spatula
- Chef’s knife + cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Tip: A nonstick skillet helps sear salmon beautifully without sticking!
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 skinless salmon fillets
- 1 tsp salt (divided)
- 1 tsp black pepper (divided)
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Orzo
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
For the Spinach & Finish
- 5 oz baby spinach
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional for Serving
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Chili flakes & cracked black pepper
How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Step 1: Season the Salmon
Pat salmon dry. Sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil and butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Onion & Garlic
Lower heat to medium. Add chopped onion and garlic to the same skillet. Cook for 2 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in dried thyme, remaining salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Toast the Orzo
Add orzo and toast for 1 minute. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add Spinach & Finish
Stir in spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes). Mix in lemon juice and Parmesan. Adjust with more broth if needed.
Step 6: Return Salmon & Heat Through
Gently nestle salmon back into the skillet. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes to warm through.
Step 7: Serve
Top with chili flakes, cracked pepper, and chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Ideas
- Fresh Green Salad – Light and crisp with vinaigrette.
- Lemon Wedges – For extra brightness.
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for scooping up every last bite.
- Glass of White Wine – Try Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Toast the orzo for a nutty flavor boost.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Taste as you go and adjust seasoning.
- Avoid overcooking the salmon — check for doneness often.
- Add extras like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for variety.
Best Sides for One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
- Roasted Asparagus
- Garlic Bread
- Steamed Broccoli
- Caesar Salad
- Quinoa Salad
- Grilled Corn
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping seasoning — it’s key to flavor!
- Overcooking salmon — it dries out fast.
- Not prepping ahead — have ingredients ready to go.
- Using poor quality broth — affects the whole dish.
- Forgetting to taste — always check before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze:
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat:
- Microwave: 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Oven: 350°F for 15–20 minutes, covered.
- Stovetop: Heat gently with a splash of broth.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different fish?
Yes! Trout or tilapia work great — just adjust cooking time.
How can I customize it?
Add cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or swap spinach for kale or arugula.
Is this recipe healthy?
Definitely! It’s rich in protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prep the ingredients (chop, measure, season) in advance.
Final Thoughts
This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a weeknight dinner win — fast, fresh, and flavorful. The one-pan method keeps it simple, while the vibrant ingredients make it feel special. Customize it your way, pair with your favorite side, and you’ve got a meal that’s as easy as it is elegant.
One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe Card
✅ Quick & Easy Dinner | 30 Minutes | One-Pan Meal
Perfect for Busy Weeknights or Casual Gatherings
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 skinless salmon fillets
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 1 tsp black pepper, divided
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Orzo
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
For the Spinach Mix
- 5 oz baby spinach
- Juice from ½ lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
To Serve & Garnish
- Fresh ground black pepper
- Red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season Salmon – Pat fillets dry. Rub with paprika, garlic powder, ½ tsp salt & pepper.
- Sear Salmon – Heat olive oil & butter in skillet. Cook salmon 3–4 min/side. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics – In same skillet, cook onion & garlic for 2 min. Stir in thyme, rest of salt & pepper.
- Toast Orzo – Add orzo, stir for 1 min. Pour in broth & bring to boil.
- Simmer – Reduce heat, cook uncovered for 8 min, stirring occasionally.
- Add Spinach – Stir until wilted (2 min). Mix in lemon juice & Parmesan.
- Finish – Return salmon to skillet. Simmer 2–3 more min.
- Serve Warm – Top with chili flakes, parsley, and extra pepper.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the salmon—aim for tender & flaky.
- Toast orzo for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Taste & adjust lemon, salt, and Parmesan to your liking.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with a green salad & crusty bread
- Add lemon wedges on the side
- Great with a glass of white wine!
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Airtight container, fridge (up to 3 days)
- Freeze: Up to 2 months
- Reheat: Skillet, oven, or microwave with a splash of broth
