🌟 Rich & Creamy Orzo with Salmon – One Skillet, Total Comfort
Nothing says comfort like creamy orzo with tender salmon. This cozy one-pan dish is rich, filling, and deeply satisfying—perfect for weeknights or a relaxed dinner party. Silky orzo is simmered in a savory broth with a splash of cream and parmesan, then paired with golden-seared salmon and fresh herbs for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
- 2 salmon fillets (skin-on or off, ~150g each)
- 1 cup orzo
- 2½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- ½ medium onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of paprika (optional, for warmth)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
👨🍳 Instructions
- Sear the Salmon
- Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ tbsp butter.
- Sear salmon skin-side down first for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add remaining ½ tbsp butter.
- Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Cook the Orzo
- Stir in the orzo and let it toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in the broth, bring to a gentle boil, and reduce to a simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Make It Creamy
- Stir in cream and parmesan.
- Let it simmer another 2–3 minutes until thickened and creamy. Season to taste.
- Finish & Serve
- Return the salmon to the skillet to warm through.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
🧠 Notes
- Orzo substitute: Use small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous if needed.
- Cream alternatives: Greek yogurt or a splash of milk + cream cheese works for a lighter version.
- Broth boost: Add a dash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Crispier salmon? Sear longer and rest on a paper towel to retain crunch before plating.
💡 Tips
- Stir orzo frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even creaminess.
- Don’t overcook the orzo—it should still have a tiny bit of bite (al dente).
- Want extra veg? Stir in baby spinach, peas, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes before adding cream.
🍽️ Servings
- Serves: 2–3 generous portions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
🔍 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
(Values will vary depending on ingredients and salmon portion size)
🌿 Benefits
- Omega-3s from Salmon: Great for heart and brain health.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Comforting & Satisfying: Creamy textures and umami-rich flavors hit the spot.
- Balanced Meal: Contains protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the orzo ahead and reheat with a splash of broth or cream. Cook salmon fresh or reheat gently in a covered pan to avoid drying out.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Not ideal. Creamy sauces can separate after freezing. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days instead.
Q: What wine pairs well with this?
A: A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creaminess and salmon.
Q: Can I use canned salmon?
A: Fresh is best for texture, but well-drained canned salmon can work in a pinch. Just stir it in at the end.