Go Back
+ servings
lemon salmon orzo in a skillet after cooking
Print Recipe
5 from 19 votes

Creamy Lemon Salmon Orzo

Creamy lemon salmon orzo is the perfect weeknight meal. It comes together easily and is great for the entire family. Fresh lemon flavor pairs well with the creamy pasta and spinach.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: lemon salmon orzo
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 4 salmon filets skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil plus more as needed
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

  • 20 ounces orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ¼ cup minced garlic
  • ¼ cup minced shallot
  • ¼ cup white wine
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth add more if needed
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • Season the salmon fillets with the paprika, oil, salt, and pepper.
  • In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. It should be enough to lightly coat the bottom of the pan.
  • One the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the salmon from the pan (including the juices) and set aside.
  • Add the butter, shallot, and garlic in the same skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
  • Pour in white wine and let it reduce for 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Add in the orzo, and stir until fully combined.
  • Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and salt until combined. Stir in the spinach and simmer for 10 minutes until the orzo softens, adding more broth if needed.
  • Add any juices from the salmon to the pan and stir to combine. Lower the heat to low heat, add the salmon pieces back in, and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until pasta is tender.

Notes

  • If needed, add more chicken broth to cook pasta, if needed. 
STORAGE: Store the leftover salmon orzo in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove top or in the microwave before serving. 

Nutrition

Calories: 387kcal