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One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

This one-pan dinner features tender, pan-seared salmon served over lemony orzo with spinach and Parmesan. It’s fresh, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 391
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 1 tsp salt, divided
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper, divided
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 oz baby spinach
  • juice from 1/2 lemon
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • freshly ground black pepper, for serving
  • chili flakes, for serving

Equipment

  • Large nonstick skillet
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s Knife

Method
 

  1. Grate Parmesan, chop onion, and mince garlic. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with garlic powder, paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and onion. Cook for 2 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in thyme and remaining salt and pepper.
  4. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute. Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes until almost al dente.
  5. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. Add more broth if needed and adjust salt to taste.
  6. Return salmon to skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve topped with black pepper and chili flakes.

Notes

For extra flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream with the Parmesan. You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a pescatarian version.