One-Pan Cajun Salmon Orzo: Quick, Easy, and Flavor-Packed!

This One-Pan Cajun Salmon Orzo is a quick meal with a delightful combination of salmon, creamy orzo, and vibrant veggies, all ready in just 40 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Cajun

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 filets skinless Atlantic salmon or substitute with another firm white fish
2 tablespoons Avocado Oil or Olive Oil for frying
2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning adjust based on heat tolerance
1 tablespoon Brown Sugar or use honey or maple syrup for sweetness

For the Veggies and Orzo

1 medium Yellow Onion or substitute shallots for milder taste
1 medium Green Bell Pepper or substitute with red or yellow bell pepper
3 cloves Garlic fresh is best, but garlic powder can work
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste or use diced tomatoes for texture
1 cup Dry Orzo substitute gluten-free or brown rice if needed
2 cups Chicken Bone Broth or use vegetable broth for vegetarian option

For the Creamy Finish

2 cups Fresh Spinach or substitute with kale or Swiss chard
1 cup Heavy Cream or substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free
2 tablespoons Lemon Juice or substitute with lime juice
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt adjust according to taste
1 teaspoon Black Pepper adjust according to taste

Equipment

cast-iron or stainless-steel pan

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Salmon - Pat the salmon filets dry and coat with oil, seasoning with Cajun seasoning and brown sugar.
Step 2: Sear Salmon - Heat the pan and sear the salmon for 5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables - Sauté onion and bell pepper until translucent, then add garlic, tomato paste, and Cajun seasoning.
Step 4: Cook Orzo - Add the dry orzo to the pan, toast for 2-3 minutes, then add broth and simmer for approximately 12 minutes until tender.
Step 5: Finish Dish - Stir in cream, lemon juice, spinach, and return salmon to the pan to warm through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Ensure the pan is preheated for a crispy sear and adjust seasoning according to taste. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!