Imagine a weeknight dinner where the table is set with glistening salmon and a vibrant orzo dish, all made in one skillet. That’s the joy of Homemade One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! It’s a simple yet elegant meal that merges the rich flavors of salmon with bright, zesty lemon, all while keeping your kitchen cleanup to a minimum. This recipe is perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without a lot of fuss. Let’s dive in and discover why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes this recipe truly special? It’s not just the delightful combination of flavors; it’s the ease and convenience of making it all in one skillet! In around 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner or a lovely meal prep option for your busy week ahead, this dish shines bright.
“I whipped this up after a long day, and my family couldn’t stop raving about it! So fresh and satisfying—definitely going in our regular rotation!” — Julie, satisfied home cook.
Step-by-Step Overview
This recipe flows seamlessly, starting with perfectly seared salmon, followed by fragrant garlic sautéed in the residual oil, and then the orzo mingling with the citrusy goodness of lemon. You’ll have a scrumptious meal done in no time!
- Sear the salmon until beautifully cooked.
- Sauté garlic to infuse flavor.
- Boil broth and lemon juice before adding orzo.
- Finish by flaking the salmon back into the orzo and serve.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for your one skillet wonder:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to swap chicken broth for vegetable broth for a lighter option, or if you prefer whole grain orzo, it can add a nutty flavor to the dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to prepare Homemade One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them skin side down in the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove the fillets to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the broth and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the orzo and lemon zest. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Flake the cooked salmon and gently fold it back into the mixture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To serve this dish, you can truly make it your own! Present the salmon and orzo in individual bowls for a rustic look. Fresh lemon wedges on the side add a fun touch for those who crave extra citrus. Pair this dish with a light cucumber salad or steamed asparagus for a balanced meal. A chilled glass of white wine also complements the flavors exceptionally well.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any remaining salmon and orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overcook Salmon: Keep an eye on the salmon while cooking to achieve that flaky texture without dryness.
- Taste Test: Be sure to taste the orzo before it’s done to check if it needs any extra seasoning.
- Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just cook everything and portion it into containers for easy access during the week.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Herb Swap: Use dill or basil instead of parsley for a different herbal touch.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in spinach or cherry tomatoes when you add the orzo for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, but you’ll want to thaw them completely in the refrigerator prior to cooking for even cooking.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop with a little broth or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Homemade One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
A simple yet elegant weeknight dinner of seared salmon and zesty lemon orzo, all made in one skillet for minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them skin side down in the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove the fillets to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the broth and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the orzo and lemon zest. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Flake the cooked salmon and gently fold it back into the mixture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.