Cajun Salmon Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the bold, smoky spice of Cajun seasoning with the delicate richness of salmon. The orzo acts as the perfect base, soaking up all the creamy, seasoned sauce. It’s a one-pan meal with a gourmet feel, ready in less than 30 minutes, and customizable to your spice preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil or butter
• Orzo pasta
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Bell pepper (diced)
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Season salmon fillets generously with Cajun seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
4. Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
5. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Cook until orzo is tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Return salmon to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
8. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

• Use shrimp or chicken instead of salmon.
• Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk instead of cream.
• Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Swap Cajun seasoning for blackened seasoning for a slightly different flavor.
• Use gluten-free orzo or small pasta for dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Not recommended for freezing, as cream-based sauces can separate.

FAQs

Can I bake the salmon instead of searing it?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes while you cook the orzo.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

It varies by brand, but you can adjust by using less seasoning or adding extra cream to mellow the heat.

Can I make this without cream?

Yes, use extra broth and a little cornstarch slurry for a lighter sauce.

Can I cook the orzo separately?

You can, but cooking it in the skillet with broth infuses more flavor.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.

What type of Parmesan works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds richer flavor.

Can I meal prep this?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead of time for faster cooking.

What can I serve with Cajun Salmon Orzo?

A crisp side salad or steamed vegetables work well.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the salmon and use vegetable broth, adding more vegetables or a plant-based protein.

How do I prevent overcooking salmon?

Cook just until it flakes easily with a fork—about 3–4 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Conclusion

Cajun Salmon Orzo is a flavorful, creamy, and quick-to-make dish that balances spice, richness, and freshness in every bite. With tender salmon, bold seasoning, and comforting pasta, it’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for both busy nights and special dinners.

Cajun Salmon Orzo

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A quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring Cajun-seasoned salmon over creamy orzo pasta with bell peppers, Parmesan, and fresh herbs for a bold yet balanced dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: One-Pan
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1. 4 salmon fillets
2. 2–3 tsp Cajun seasoning
3. 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
4. 1 cup orzo pasta
5. 1 small onion, finely chopped
6. 3 cloves garlic, minced
7. 1 bell pepper, diced
8. 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
9. 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
10. 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
11. 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
12. 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
13. Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Season salmon fillets generously with Cajun seasoning.

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
3. Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
4. Pour in broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until orzo is tender, stirring occasionally.
5. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Return salmon to skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

1. Swap salmon for shrimp or chicken for variation.
2. Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
3. Add spinach or kale for extra vegetables.
4. Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spice level.
5. Cook orzo in the same skillet for maximum flavor infusion.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with orzo
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 125mg