One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo

After a long day juggling work and family, settling into a comforting yet effortless dinner feels like a small victory. One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo delivers just that, with flaky salmon nestled atop bright, lemony orzo that absorbs savory broth and fresh herb notes for a Mediterranean-inspired bite. The one-pan method keeps cleanup minimal while maximizing flavor in every tender forkful.

This dish shines on weeknights but works for casual weekends too. It pairs the richness of salmon with the lightness of orzo and peas. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. This maintains its moist texture for easy lunches. Guests often rave about the zesty lemon slices that elevate the whole meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Weeknight Win: This one-pan dish comes together in just 30 minutes. It saves time for busy evenings without sacrificing taste.
• Flavorful and Fresh: Tender salmon pairs with zesty lemon orzo and herbs. This creates a bright, Mediterranean vibe that’s both healthy and satisfying.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything bakes in a single oven-safe skillet. This makes it ideal for tired home cooks who want ease after a full day.
• Family Favorite: The optional peas add nutrition and color. They appeal to kids while keeping the meal versatile for picky eaters.
• Customizable Options: Swap broth for vegetable to make it vegetarian-friendly. Or skip cheese for a dairy-free version.

One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo Ingredients

The ingredients in One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo come together seamlessly for a balanced meal. Here, the salmon’s richness contrasts the citrusy orzo base. Choosing fresh herbs and quality broth elevates the dish’s vibrant flavors. It also ensures tender results every time.

• Salmon fillets: Provide a protein-packed, flaky centerpiece with natural omega-3s for heart-healthy appeal.
• Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness for toasting and prevents sticking while enhancing overall savoriness.
• Salt and black pepper: Season the salmon simply to highlight its fresh taste without overpowering other elements.
• Dried oregano: Infuses an earthy, Mediterranean herb note that complements the lemon and seafood.
• Garlic powder: Delivers a mild, aromatic depth to the seasoning blend for layered flavor.
• Orzo pasta: Forms the base, absorbing broth and lemon for a risotto-like texture that’s light yet comforting.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: Builds the cooking liquid, simmering into the orzo for savory moisture and tenderness.
• Lemon: Slices release bright, tangy juices during baking to perfume the entire dish.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a clean, green freshness when stirred in at the end for color and herbal balance.
• Fresh dill: Brings a subtle anise-like brightness that pairs perfectly with salmon and citrus.
• Frozen peas: Offer pops of sweetness and nutrition, blending into the warm orzo for added vibrancy (optional).
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles on top for a nutty, umami finish that ties flavors together (optional).

Note: The complete list of ingredients and exact measurements can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Preheat and Season Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Pat the salmon fillets dry. Then season them generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil. This simple prep ensures the fish stays flavorful. It also develops a nice sear.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the orzo and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes. Do this until it turns lightly golden. This enhances its nutty taste. It also prevents a gummy texture later.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir to release any bits stuck to the pan. This step infuses the orzo with savory liquid right from the start. So, it sets up even cooking.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Nestle the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the orzo. Then tuck thin lemon slices over and around them for infused citrus notes. Transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Do this until the salmon flakes easily at 145°F. Also, the orzo is tender with most liquid absorbed.

Step 5: Finish and Rest

Stir the chopped parsley, dill, and frozen peas into the orzo around the salmon. Let everything stand for 5 minutes off the heat. This allows flavors to blend. It also lets any remaining liquid soak in fully.

Pro Tips for Success

• Choose Oven-Safe Skillet: Use a 12-inch or larger pan that can go from stovetop to oven. Transfer to a baking dish if yours isn’t suitable. This avoids mishaps.
• Toast Orzo Evenly: Stir constantly during toasting to achieve a uniform golden color. This boosts flavor. It also ensures the pasta cooks up light and separate.
• Check Salmon Doneness: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F to keep it moist and flaky. Overbaking can make it dry.
• Use Fresh Herbs Last: Add parsley and dill after baking to preserve their vibrant color and fresh taste. This avoids wilting from heat.
• Opt for Low-Sodium Broth: This prevents the dish from becoming too salty. Especially with added seasonings on the salmon.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo

Garnishes

I like to squeeze fresh lemon over the top for an extra zesty kick. This brightens the salmon’s richness. A sprinkle of chopped dill or parsley adds a pop of green color and herbal freshness. Meanwhile, optional Parmesan brings a creamy, nutty contrast to the tender orzo.

Side Dishes

Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon. This echoes the dish’s citrus theme without overwhelming the plate. Steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli provides a crisp, earthy side. It complements the seafood’s lightness. Plus, it adds more veggies for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon the orzo onto plates first. Then perch the salmon fillet atop for an elegant, restaurant-style look that’s easy to portion. For family meals, serve family-style straight from the skillet with lemon wedges on the side. This creates a cozy, shared vibe. It also highlights the golden, herb-flecked orzo.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 3 days. This keeps the salmon moist and the orzo from drying out. So, it makes it perfect for quick midday meals.

Freezing

Portion the cooled One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo into freezer-safe bags. Flatten them for easy storage. It freezes nicely for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This maintains the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave on medium power. Cover with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. For oven reheating, use a 350°F setting covered with foil for 10 minutes. This prevents the salmon from drying. Thus, it preserves its flaky tenderness.

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