Go Back
+ servings
One pan salmon with orzo on wooden table.
Print Recipe
5 from 3 votes

One Pan Salmon with Spinach and Orzo

This One Pan Salmon and Orzo with spinach and cherry tomatoes couldn't be easier! This one's a must for busy weeknights, is packed with flavor, and just perfect for those looking for something a little lighter!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 4 6 ounce (170g) salmon fillets skinned removed
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun or blackened seasoning
  • 6 tablespoons (90ml) extra virgin olive oil divided
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 pounds (680g) cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 pound (454g) baby spinach
  • 3 cups (720ml) low-sodium chicken stock can also use water or vegetable stock
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons (13g) fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound (454g) orzo pasta
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup minced flat-leaf Italian parsley

Instructions

  • Heat a large pot or high-walled pan to medium heat with 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and the butter.
  • Pat the salmon pieces dry then season with the Cajun spice on both sides. Sear the salmon for 3 minutes per side then place the pieces on a plate and tent with foil.
  • To the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and the onion with a pinch of salt and cook until translucent (5 minutes) then add the garlic and cook until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
  • Add the tomatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
  • Add the spinach, oregano, salt and pepper, and mix well to coat then press down and cover with a tight fitting lid for 2-3 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
  • Add the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo and stir well to coat. Cover the pot, turn the heat to low, and cook for 8 minutes. After 8 minutes, uncover the pot and nestle the salmon pieces into the orzo. Cover again and cook for another 4-6 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the salmon is cooked through.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and mix in the lemon juice and parsley. If the orzo is too dry add a touch more chicken stock and olive oil if needed. Taste test and adjust salt and pepper if required. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Servings.  Makes 4 large servings or 6 smaller size servings.
  • Salmon.  Make sure to remove the skin or have the fishmonger do it when purchasing.  The salmon can be cut into smaller bite-sized pieces if you like. 
  • Change it up.  Chicken breast or thighs can be subbed for salmon. 
  • Leftovers.  This salmon and orzo recipe can be saved in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.

Nutrition

Calories: 985kcal | Carbohydrates: 99.7g | Protein: 56.8g | Fat: 41.2g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 116mg | Sodium: 1123mg | Fiber: 9.6g | Sugar: 11.1g | Calcium: 165mg | Iron: 10mg

QR code

Scan this QR code with your phone's camera to view this recipe on your mobile device.

qr code