🐟 Creamy Parmesan Salmon & Spinach Orzo

🍽️ Serves: 2–4

⏱️ Ready in: ~35 minutes

🌿 One-pan friendly!

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🧂 Ingredients:

For the salmon:
• 2–4 salmon fillets (skin-on or off)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

For the creamy orzo:
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or veggie broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2–3 cups baby spinach
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes, fresh lemon zest

⸻

🔥 Instructions:

1. Cook the Salmon:
• Season salmon with salt and pepper.
• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter.
• Sear salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) for 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook another 2–4 minutes until golden and just cooked through.
• Squeeze lemon over top if desired.
• Remove from pan and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Orzo:
• In the same pan, lower heat to medium.
• Add a splash more oil or butter if needed, then sauté garlic for ~30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes to bring out flavor.
• Pour in broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Stir occasionally, cooking orzo for 8–10 minutes until al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

3. Finish with Cream, Cheese & Spinach:
• Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Mix until creamy and well combined.
• Add spinach and cook until wilted, 1–2 minutes.
• Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes or lemon zest.

4. Combine & Serve:
• Return salmon to the skillet on top of the orzo (or flake it in, if preferred).
• Garnish with more Parmesan, fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), or lemon wedges.