Go Back
–+ servings
One-Pan Cajun Salmon Orzo

One-Pan Cajun Salmon Orzo: A Flavorful Dinner in 40 Minutes

This One-Pan Cajun Salmon Orzo is a quick, nutritious meal packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 4 filets Skinless Salmon Feel free to substitute with trout or tilapia.
  • 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil / Olive Oil Can use canola or grapeseed oil as alternatives.
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust spice level to preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Consider using red or yellow peppers.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced, fresh garlic is preferable.
For the Base
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Gluten-free orzo is available.
  • 3 cups Chicken Bone Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
For the Creamy Finish
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach Kale or other leafy greens can be swapped.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream can be a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Vinegar can substitute for acidity.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper

Equipment

  • cast iron skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the skinless salmon filets dry with paper towels. Mix Cajun seasoning with brown sugar and rub over the salmon filets. Drizzle with oil.
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and place the seasoned salmon. Cook for about 5 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes until flaky. Remove and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium-low, add oil to the skillet, and sauté diced onion and chopped bell pepper for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
  4. Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, and more Cajun seasoning, continue sautéing for 2 minutes until aromatic.
  5. Add dry orzo and stir for 2-3 minutes to toast.
  6. Pour in chicken broth, stir, bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat. Simmer for about 12 minutes until orzo is tender.
  7. Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and lemon juice until spinach wilts. Nestle the salmon back into the skillet, cover, and let flavors meld for 3 minutes.
  8. Serve the One-Pan Cajun Salmon Orzo, optionally garnished with parsley and honey.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Dry the salmon well for a crispy exterior. Control heat while sautéing to prevent burning. Adjust seasoning to taste. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!