Creamy One-Skillet Salmon with Orzo and Spinach

There are evenings when I crave something wholesome, satisfying, and still elegant enough to feel like a little celebration at home.

That’s when I turn to this creamy Salmon with Orzo and Spinach.

It’s hearty but not heavy, rich without needing cream, and ready in one pan.

The orzo soaks up all that garlicky, lemony flavor while the salmon stays moist and tender.

Plus, spinach adds a pop of green freshness that balances every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

One-pan magic: Fewer dishes, more flavor.

Perfect weeknight meal: Ready in about 30 minutes.

Family-approved: Creamy pasta and flaky salmon are always a hit.

Balanced: Protein, carbs, greens, and citrus in every bite.

Restaurant-worthy: But made right in your kitchen.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Salmon Fillets: Skinless, fresh or frozen (thawed). Firm and flaky once seared.

Orzo Pasta: Cooks directly in broth, giving it a creamy risotto-like texture.

Chicken Broth: Low-sodium is best to control saltiness.

Onion & Garlic: The aromatic base that builds rich flavor.

Spinach: Baby spinach wilts beautifully into the orzo.

Lemon Juice: Brightens and balances the richness.

Parmesan: Adds depth and that signature creamy finish.

Butter & Olive Oil: For flavor and perfect searing.

Paprika, Garlic Powder, Thyme: A fragrant trio that seasons everything beautifully.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use a large skillet so everything fits and cooks evenly.

Toast the orzo before adding broth for a nuttier flavor.

Add broth gradually if needed, to prevent dryness.

Don’t overcook the salmon — sear and finish gently in the pan.

Fresh lemon juice at the end brightens everything up.

How to Make Salmon with Orzo and Spinach

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Grate the Parmesan, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.

Pat the salmon dry and season both sides with sweet paprika, garlic powder, and half the salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear the salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Reduce the heat to medium.

Sauté onion and garlic in the same skillet for about 2 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Add dried thyme and the remaining salt and pepper.

Stir in the orzo and toast for 1 minute to enhance its nutty flavor.

Step 4: Simmer the Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The orzo should be nearly al dente, with most of the broth absorbed.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach and Finish the Orzo

Add spinach and stir until wilted — about 2 minutes.

Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan.

Add more broth if needed to keep it creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 6: Return the Salmon

Gently return the salmon to the pan and simmer for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes.

Serve warm and enjoy the comfort in every bite!

What to Serve It With

Crisp side salad with vinaigrette

Garlic bread or roasted vegetables

Grilled asparagus or steamed broccoli

Chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Variations / Substitutions

Swap salmon for shrimp or chicken if desired.

Use whole wheat orzo for more fiber.

Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.

Use veggie broth to make it pescatarian.

Make it dairy-free by omitting Parmesan and using nutritional yeast.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Add a splash of broth before reheating in a pan or microwave.

Freezing not recommended: The texture of orzo and spinach may change.

Make ahead: Prep the salmon and chop vegetables in advance to save time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

What is orzo exactly?
Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor like a dream.

Can I make this gluten-free?
You can try gluten-free orzo or substitute with short-grain rice, but cooking time and liquid may vary.

Can I add cream for a richer dish?
Sure! Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream just before serving for extra richness.

What can I use instead of spinach?
Try kale (chopped small), arugula, or Swiss chard.

Can I bake the salmon instead?
Yes — bake it at 400°F for 10–12 minutes while the orzo simmers, then add it at the end.

Is it spicy with the chili flakes?
Only mildly! Adjust the amount to your preference or skip them altogether.

Final Thoughts

This Salmon with Orzo and Spinach recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both special and effortless.

The salmon is tender and flavorful, the orzo is creamy and comforting, and the spinach brings it all together with a healthy twist.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or you’re cooking for someone you love, this one-pan wonder always impresses.

Don’t forget a squeeze of lemon and a little sprinkle of chili flakes — it’s the simple touches that make it unforgettable.