One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

The sizzle of perfectly seared salmon against a backdrop of lemony, herb-infused orzo creates a symphony of flavors in this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines flaky, protein-rich salmon with tender pasta pearls that soak up a bright, citrusy sauce. The beauty lies in its simplicity—one pan means minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this elegant yet effortless meal strikes the perfect balance between sophisticated and approachable. You’ll learn how to create a restaurant-quality dish with perfectly cooked salmon and deliciously zesty orzo using just one skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a game-changer for busy households and culinary enthusiasts alike. The combination of crispy-skinned salmon resting atop creamy orzo creates a delightful textural contrast that elevates every bite. The brightness of fresh lemon cuts through the richness of the fish, while the orzo absorbs all the wonderful flavors from the salmon and aromatics.

What makes this dish truly special is its efficiency—everything cooks in a single skillet, allowing the ingredients to build layers of flavor while saving you from a sink full of dishes. The salmon develops a gorgeous golden crust while remaining tender and moist inside, and the orzo achieves the perfect al dente texture with a creamy finish similar to risotto.

This recipe strikes the ideal balance between nourishing and comforting, sophisticated yet simple. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. The visual appeal of the colorful dish—pink salmon, bright herbs, and tiny pasta pearls—makes it as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, you’ll need:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on
• 1½ cups (300g) orzo pasta
• 3 cups (720ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely diced (about ¼ cup)
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped, plus more for garnish
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup (120ml) dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup (60g) crumbled feta cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

The skin-on salmon is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture, while fresh herbs and lemon provide brightness. The orzo acts as the perfect canvas, absorbing the flavors of the broth and wine while creating a creamy base for the salmon. Make sure to use a dry white wine that you would enjoy drinking, as it significantly impacts the final flavor profile of the dish.

Pro Tips

Perfecting Your Salmon: The secret to restaurant-quality salmon with lemon orzo lies in the initial sear. Ensure your salmon fillets are completely dry by patting them with paper towels before seasoning. This allows for a beautiful golden crust to form. Let the salmon cook undisturbed for at least 4-5 minutes on the skin side to develop that crispy texture many home cooks miss. The skin should release easily from the pan when it’s properly seared.

Maximizing Flavor Development: Create a flavor base by starting with aromatics. Sautéing garlic and shallots until fragrant but not browned provides the foundation for the entire dish. When deglazing with white wine, make sure to scrape all the browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan—this is concentrated flavor that will infuse your orzo with depth and complexity.

Achieving Perfect Orzo Texture: For ideal orzo consistency in this one pan salmon dish, simmer it uncovered at first, then partially cover during the final cooking stages. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but not too frequently—this allows the starches to release slowly, creating a creamy texture similar to risotto without the constant attention. Test the orzo a minute before the suggested cooking time ends; it should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente).

Instructions

Step 1

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Set aside and allow to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Step 2

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the salmon is nearly cooked through but still slightly translucent in the center. Transfer the salmon to a plate and tent loosely with foil.

Step 3

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shallots and sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4

Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2 minutes.

Step 5

Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with the flavorful liquid. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and half of the lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6

When the orzo is nearly done, stir in the cherry tomatoes, half of the dill, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.

Step 7

Return the salmon to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo skin-side up. Sprinkle with the crumbled feta, remaining herbs, and the rest of the lemon zest. Cover and let everything warm through for 2 minutes.

Step 8

Serve your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs and red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy the delightful contrast between the crispy-skinned salmon and the creamy, zesty orzo!

Variations

Mediterranean Twist: Transform your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo by adding Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and baby spinach during the final cooking stage. The olives add briny depth, while the peppers contribute sweetness and color. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for extra texture and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving.

Herb-Forward Version: For herb enthusiasts, create a verdant variation by incorporating a generous handful of mixed herbs. Combine basil, tarragon, chives, and mint with the already-included dill and parsley. This herbaceous profile pairs beautifully with the lemon and salmon, creating a bright, garden-fresh salmon orzo dish that’s perfect for spring and summer entertaining.

Dairy-Free Adaptation: Easily make this one-pan salmon dish dairy-free by omitting the feta cheese and adding nutritional yeast for a savory, cheese-like flavor. Incorporate capers for briny brightness and finish with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs mixed with lemon zest for texture. This variation maintains the dish’s creamy texture and complex flavor profile while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Storage and Serving

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, store the salmon and orzo separately if possible. When reheating, gently warm the orzo in a covered pan with a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy texture. The salmon should be reheated gently at a low temperature to prevent it from drying out—or better yet, enjoy it cold or at room temperature to maintain its delicate texture.

For serving, present this beautiful dish family-style right in the skillet for a rustic, impressive presentation. Garnish with additional lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before bringing it to the table.

Pair your salmon with lemon orzo with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus. For a more substantial spread, include warm crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce from the bottom of the skillet.

FAQs

Can I use skinless salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless salmon fillets for this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, though you’ll miss out on the crispy skin texture. If using skinless, reduce the initial cooking time by about 1 minute and be extra careful when flipping to keep the fillets intact.

What can I substitute for orzo?
If you can’t find orzo, other small pasta shapes like pearl couscous (Israeli couscous) or small shells work well. Alternatively, arborio rice creates a similar creamy texture, though it will require additional liquid and cooking time.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components ahead of time. Cook the orzo base up to a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat the orzo with a splash of broth, then sear fresh salmon to place on top.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the white wine?
Absolutely! Replace the white wine with additional chicken broth plus 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity that wine provides in this one-pan salmon recipe.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still has a slightly translucent center. For medium doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C). The fish will continue cooking slightly when returned to the hot orzo.

Conclusion

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is comfort food at its finest — elevated yet approachable, delivering Mediterranean flavors in a fuss-free package. It’s the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary weeknight into something special, striking the perfect balance between nourishing and indulgent. The bright lemon notes dancing with herbs and the contrast between crispy salmon and creamy orzo create a memorable meal that feels like a vacation for your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this one-pan wonder proves that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques or a sink full of dishes.

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