One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Cook One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in under 30 minutes with fresh salmon, orzo pasta, broth, lemon juice, and simple pantry staples.
Equipment
- Large, deep skillet with a lid
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Microplane or fine grater (for lemon zest)
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets about 5–6 oz each, skin on or off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter optional, for richness
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- Juice of 1 large lemon about 3 tablespoons
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Salmon
- Pat the salmon dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes, until golden and crisp. Flip and cook another 2 minutes, then remove to a plate—the aroma alone will make you hungry.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
- Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil (and butter, if using). Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. You’re looking for that warm, garlicky smell without any browning.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
- Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil and garlic. Let it toast for 1–2 minutes. This step adds a subtle nutty flavor that makes the finished One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo taste deeply savory.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Lemon
- Pour in the broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and creamy.
Step 5: Return the Salmon to the Skillet
- Nestle the salmon fillets back into the orzo. Cover the skillet and cook for 3–5 minutes, just until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily. The steam gently finishes the fish while keeping it moist.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Taste the orzo and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan if using, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve straight from the skillet while everything is hot and fragrant.