Salmon with Lemon Orzo

I remember the first time I made Salmon with Lemon Orzo for a casual dinner with friends and how quickly the table went silent after the first bite then slowly filled with murmurs of “what’s in this?” and “can I have the recipe?” It was a spontaneous dish crafted from what I had on hand fresh salmon fillets from the market and a lonely lemon sitting in my fruit bowl and it turned out to be one of the most vibrant and flavorful meals I’d made in weeks.

Since then I’ve refined it with each cook and now it’s my go-to for when I want something elegant yet easy and light yet deeply satisfying. The creamy orzo absorbs the zesty lemon and mingles beautifully with the richness of the salmon and every forkful brings a burst of brightness balanced by savory notes from fresh herbs and garlic.

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Salmon fillets – The star of the dish and bring protein and rich omega-3 fats.
• Orzo pasta – Acts like rice but cooks like pasta and soaks up the lemony flavors.
• Lemon juice and zest – Provide brightness and a fresh citrus punch.
• Garlic – Adds depth and savory flavor.
• Onion – Brings sweetness and balance to the orzo base.
• Chicken broth – Infuses the orzo with a savory and comforting base.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the salmon and sauté the aromatics.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley – Adds a fresh finish and bright color.
• Diced tomatoes – Optional but they add juiciness and visual appeal.

Tools You’ll Need

• Skillet or Sauté Pan – To sear the salmon and cook the orzo.
• Saucepan – For boiling orzo if you prefer to cook it separately.
• Zester – To zest the lemon easily without the bitter white pith.
• Chef’s Knife – For chopping onions, parsley, and tomatoes.
• Cutting Board – Keeps your prep space clean and safe.
• Tongs or Fish Spatula – To flip the salmon gently without breaking it.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To get your lemon juice and broth amounts right.

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Salmon

I season the salmon with salt and pepper on both sides. Then I heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and place the salmon skin-side down. I sear it for 3 to 4 minutes per side until it’s golden on the outside and just cooked through. I remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet I reduce the heat slightly then add a splash of olive oil. I sauté the chopped onion until it’s soft and translucent and then stir in the minced garlic. I cook this mixture for about 1 minute just until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

I stir in the orzo and let it toast for a minute to give it a nutty flavor. Then I add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. I let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Tomatoes

Once the orzo is almost done I stir in the lemon juice, zest, and diced tomatoes. I let everything heat through and check for seasoning. Sometimes I’ll add an extra pinch of salt or another squeeze of lemon.

Step 5: Finish with Salmon and Parsley

I return the salmon to the skillet, placing it gently on top of the lemony orzo. I let it warm through for 1 to 2 minutes then sprinkle everything with fresh chopped parsley right before serving.

Tips

If you want even more flavor I sometimes add a splash of white wine to the orzo while it cooks. I also love to garnish with extra lemon slices or wedges for presentation. If you’re short on time you can cook the orzo separately and mix it in at the end – it still tastes fantastic. And if you’re into spice a pinch of red pepper flakes goes a long way.

Ways to Serve

I love serving this dish with a crisp green salad or sautéed spinach on the side. It also pairs well with roasted asparagus or a chilled cucumber-dill salad. For a heartier meal add some crusty bread to mop up every last drop of the lemony sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of salmon works best for Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

I prefer skin-on salmon fillets because they stay moist and flavorful when seared but skinless works just fine too.

Can I make Salmon with Lemon Orzo ahead of time?

Yes just cook the orzo and salmon separately and store them in airtight containers. Reheat gently and combine before serving.

Is Salmon with Lemon Orzo healthy?

Definitely! It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh citrus. You can reduce the olive oil slightly for a lighter version.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Salmon with Lemon Orzo a try! It’s a personal favorite that always makes dinner feel a little more special without the stress. Let me know how it turns out and don’t forget to save this recipe for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.

Happy Cooking!

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