Name: One Pan Salmon and Spinach Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each, skin removed; 2 teaspoons Cajun or blackened seasoning; 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large onion, diced; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 pounds cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 pound baby spinach; 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 2 teaspoons fine sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound orzo pasta; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/4 cup flat-leaf Italian parsley, minced

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This One Pan Salmon and Spinach Orzo is a bright, hearty dinner I love making when I want something easy but still full of flavor. I get tender salmon, creamy orzo, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach all in one pan.

One Pan Salmon and Spinach Orzo

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each, skin removed

2 teaspoons Cajun or blackened seasoning

6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 large onion, diced

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 ½ pounds cherry tomatoes, halved

1 pound baby spinach

3 cups low-sodium chicken stock

1 tablespoon dried oregano

2 teaspoons fine sea salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 pound orzo pasta

3 tablespoons lemon juice

¼ cup flat-leaf Italian parsley, minced

Directions

I heat a large deep pan over medium heat with 4 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter.

I pat the salmon dry, season both sides with Cajun seasoning, then sear it for about 3 minutes per side. I transfer it to a plate and loosely cover it.

I add the remaining olive oil to the same pan, then stir in the onion with a small pinch of salt. I cook it for about 5 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.

I add the cherry tomatoes and cook them for 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and release their juices.

I add the spinach, oregano, salt, and black pepper. I toss everything well, press the spinach down, cover the pan, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted.

I pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Then I stir in the orzo, cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 8 minutes.

I uncover the pan and nestle the salmon into the orzo. I cover it again and cook for 4 to 6 minutes more, until the orzo is tender and the salmon is fully cooked.

I remove the pan from the heat, then stir in the lemon juice and parsley. I add a splash more stock or a drizzle of olive oil if the orzo needs it, then I adjust the seasoning and serve it warm.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 985 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the Cajun seasoning for Italian seasoning when I want a milder flavor. I also like using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a lighter taste. For extra creaminess, I stir in a little grated Parmesan at the end. When I want more brightness, I add extra lemon juice before serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the orzo gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of stock or water. I avoid overheating the salmon so it stays tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, I can use frozen salmon as long as I thaw it fully and pat it dry before seasoning and searing.

Can I use another pasta instead of orzo?

I prefer orzo because it cooks quickly, but small pasta shapes can work if I adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Yes, I use a mild blackened seasoning or reduce the Cajun seasoning for a gentler flavor.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

I know the salmon is ready when it flakes easily and is cooked through in the center.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, I like adding Parmesan at the end for a richer, creamier finish.

Conclusion

This One Pan Salmon and Spinach Orzo is a flavorful, easy dinner I can make without using a pile of dishes. I love the mix of tender salmon, lemony herbs, juicy tomatoes, and silky orzo for a meal that feels both cozy and fresh.

📖 Recipe:

One Pan Salmon and Spinach Orzo

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Halal

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Description

A bright and hearty one-pan dinner featuring tender salmon over creamy orzo with spinach, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This flavorful dish is comforting yet balanced, perfect for an easy weeknight meal.

Instructions

Heat a large deep pan over medium heat with 4 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter.
Pat the salmon dry, season both sides with Cajun seasoning, then sear for about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and loosely cover.
Add the remaining olive oil to the same pan, then cook the diced onion with a small pinch of salt for about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened and juicy.
Add spinach, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss well, press spinach down, cover, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted.
Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Stir in the orzo, cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 8 minutes.
Uncover and nestle the salmon into the orzo. Cover again and cook for 4 to 6 minutes until the orzo is tender and salmon is cooked through.
Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and parsley. Adjust consistency with extra stock or olive oil if needed, season to taste, and serve warm.