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–+ servings

30-Minute Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine Mediterranean
Keyword 30-Minute Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Servings 4
This quick and creamy salmon with lemon orzo is a one-pan Mediterranean-inspired meal you’ll make again and again. Tender salmon, spinach, Parmesan, and lemon create the perfect balance of flavor and freshness.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each, skinless
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for searing
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder or Italian seasoning

For the Lemon Orzo:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small shallot finely chopped
  • ¼ cup white wine for deglazing
  • 2½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
  • 1½ cups orzo pasta
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice or to taste
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach packed

Optional Add-ins:

  • ½ cup diced bell peppers
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved

Garnish:

  • 1 tsp lemon zest optional
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Instructions

  • Sear the Salmon:
  • Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics:
  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and shallots; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  • Cook the Orzo:
  • Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the orzo and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  • Make It Creamy:
  • Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy and well combined.
  • Combine Everything:
  • Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Return the salmon fillets to the pan and spoon the lemon orzo around them. Warm through for a minute before serving.
  • Serve and Garnish:
  • Garnish with lemon zest, fresh parsley, and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Pat salmon dry before searing for a golden crust.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
Don’t overcook the orzo—keep it creamy like risotto.
Add a splash of broth if the orzo thickens too much after resting.