What’s a favorite dish in our house? I swear, sometimes I think I could live on this stuff. Creamy Salmon Orzo. Is this a cross between sucking up on mac and cheese and salmon? Is it easier than either of those things individually? Do you remember those boxed creamy pasta dinners we all grew up on? This is that, but a million times better, healthier, and bursting with fresh flavor. What’s the best part about cooking a meal in under 30 minutes? I need something quick, satisfying, and that everyone will actually use. This is my go-to when I want something that I can trust. Can I eat without complaining? My picky eater loves it!

What is Creamy Salmon Orzo?

Creamy Salmon Orzo, at its heart, is a pasta dish. But it’s so much more than that! Think of it as a risotto’s effortlessly chic cousin. We’re talking perfectly cooked orzo pasta (that rice-shaped pasta that’s just so fun to eat! ), tossed in a creamy, dreamy sauce, studded with flakes of tender, perfectly cooked salmon. It’s essentially a one-pot wonder where everything comes together in an symphony of flavors and textures. The richness of the salmon, the slight bite of orzo, and the lusciousness in the cream sauce… Is it just divine? What are some ways to substitute veggies for cream? Is this a canvas for culinary creativity?

Why do I love this recipe?

How do I start with Creamy Salmon Orzo? First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. What is so comforting about the creamy sauce, infused with the delicate flavor of salmon? Is it just about the creaminess? Lemon zest and fresh herbs add a brightness that keeps it from feeling heavy. What I love about this is how easy it is to make. What are the basics of chopping, one pot, and a handful of ingredients? I can whip up this in 30 minutes even on the busiest weeknights. What is a lifesaver? Salmon is a bit pricey, but you don’t need to eat to make this dish sing. I often use frozen salmon fillets, which are much more budget-friendly. What are some pantry staples that most people already have on hand? What is the versatility of this recipe? Add some spinach or asparagus for extra veggies, swap out the cream for coconut milk for a healthier alternative. Can you use fish like cod or shrimp in your recipe? What are the possibilities? What is a great weeknight meal that everyone will love? Creamy Salmon Orzo is it. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. Is it a new family favorite?

How do I make Creamy Salmon Orzo?

Quick Overview

How do I make Creamy Salmon Orzo? How do you cook orzo in a broth? In the same pot, we poach the salmon, infusing the pasta with its delicious flavor. After that, it’s just a matter of stirring in the cream, lemon zest, and fresh herbs to create that perfect ice cream. What is your signature creamy sauce? What’s the beauty of this method is that everything cooks together in one pot, minimizing cleanup and reducing waste. What are the best ways Is it a weeknight win?

Ingredients

For the Salmon:
* 1 pound salmon fillet, skin on or off (I usually go for skin off, it’s just easier! ) * 1 tablespoon olive oil * Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

For the Orzo:
1 tablespoon olive oil * 1 small onion, finely chopped * 2 cloves garlic, minced * 1/2 cup orzo. How do I control the sodium in chicken broth? Is coconut milk a dairy-free option? ) * 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds a nice salty bite)* 1 lemon, zested and topped with parsley * Juiced * 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley * 2 tablespoons chopped dill * Salt and freshly ground ground black pepper * Black pepper, to taste.

What are the steps in

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Season salmon fillet with salt and pepper. In a Dutch Oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Place the salmon in the pot and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked. Remove the salmon from the pot and set aside. Is it okay if it’s not perfectly cooked?

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the remaining olive oil to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the onion and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Where does the magic start, the smell is just heavenly!

Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth

Stir in orzo pasta and chicken broth. What is the best way to cook orzo? Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the meat is cooked al dente. The broth is mostly absorbed and the dente. How do you stir orzo to avoid sticking to the bottom of the pot?

Step 4: Flake the Salmon

While the orzo is cooking, flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about making it perfect, rustic is good!

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and Parmesan cheese (if using). Cook for another minute or two, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. Where does the creaminess come together?

Step 6: Add Salmon, Lemon, and Herbs

Gently stir in the flaked salmon, lemon zest, lime juice, parsley, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. At this stage, be careful not to overcook the salmon. You just want to heat it through.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve the Creamy Salmon Orzo immediately. Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge, if desired.

What should I serve it with?

This Creamy Salmon Orzo is great on its own, but it’s even better with the right side dishes.What are some easy weeknight meals?What are some great side dishes to serve with asparagus or roasted broccoli? What is a good green salad with olive oil and vinaigrette?For a More Elegant Dinner:Serve with a glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. What is a good crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce?What is a good cozy brunch?A side of fresh fruit or a light frittata would be the perfect complement to the richness of the orzo. What is my family’s favorite side of garlic bread? Is it a total carb overload?

How do you make Creamy Salmon Orzo?

How do I make Creamy Salmon Orzo?Salmon Selection: What areFresh or frozen salmon both work great. If using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. I find that wild-caught salmon has the best flavor but it can be a bit more expensive.Orzo Cooking:How do you cook orzo? You want it to be al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite to it. Do not be afraid to taste it! Start checking for doneness around 10 minutes.Creamy Sauce:If you want the creamiest sauce, use heavy cream. If you’re looking for a lighter option, coconut milk or even half and half will work. What are some of the best ways to prepare a sauce that isn’t as rich as the sauce you’re using?Lemon Zest:Don’t skip the lemon zest! It adds a brightness and freshness that really elevates the dish. Make sure to zest the lemon before you juice it.Herb Power:Fresh herbs are a must for this recipe. What are some good substitutes for parsley and dill?Seasoning:Don’t be afraid to season with salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly. Remember, you can always add more, but you cannot take it away! I’ve learned over time that adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives it some flavor. Try it, you might like it!

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house! This Creamy Salmon Orzo stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.Reheating:What is the best way to reheat this dish? Add a splash of water to loosen it up, and stir occasionally until heated through. Can you reheat salmon in the microwave?Freezing:I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the cream sauce can separate and become grainy. If you want to freeze something, make sure to cool it completely before transferring it. Is it safe to store your drinks in a Is it safe to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight?Glaze Timing Advice:Since there’s no glaze in this recipe, you don’t need to worry about that! Just make sure to reheat it gently to prevent it from drying out.

What are the most frequently asked questions on

Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! Cod, shrimp, or even smoked salmon would be delicious in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese. The coconut milk adds a lovely richness and creaminess.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Spinach, asparagus, peas, or even sun-dried tomatoes would be great additions. Just add them to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the orzo ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. But I recommend cooking the salmon and making the sauce just before serving, to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, orzo pasta is not gluten-free. But you can easily substitute it with a gluten-free orzo or another type of gluten-free pasta, like rice pasta.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it: my go-to Creamy Salmon Orzo Recipe. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and a total crowd-pleaser. What more could you ask for? I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that just makes you feel good from the inside out. If you’re looking for other easy weeknight meals, be sure to check out my other pasta recipes. Happy cooking, friends! And don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear from you!