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One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo

One Skillet Salmon With Lemon Orzo

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  • Author: Maya Ellison
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A quick and easy one-skillet meal featuring tender salmon fillets baked over lemon-infused orzo pasta with fresh herbs, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

  • 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 1 tbsp olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 cups orzo pasta
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus more for serving
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Drizzle with a little olive oil.
  3. In a large (at least 12-inch) oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  4. Add the orzo to the skillet and toast lightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color.
  5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and stir well to loosen any orzo sticking to the bottom.
  6. Arrange the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the orzo in the skillet. Place a few thin lemon slices over and around the salmon.
  7. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily, and the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender. (Internal temperature for salmon should be 145°F/63°C).
  8. Remove the skillet from the oven. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, and frozen peas (if using) into the orzo around the salmon.
  9. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the orzo to finish absorbing any remaining liquid.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh lemon slices and an optional sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version (though salmon makes it pescatarian).
  • Ensure the skillet is oven-safe; if not, transfer to a baking dish.
  • Frozen peas add color and nutrition but can be omitted for a simpler dish.
  • Parmesan is optional and can be skipped for dairy-free.