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Cajun Salmon with Orzo and Spinach


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  • Author: betty-m
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

A flavorful Cajun salmon dish paired with orzo and spinach, perfect for family meals.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skinless, boneless salmon fillets (6 ounces/170g each)
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun or blackened seasoning
  • 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 pounds cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 pound baby spinach
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock (or water/vegetable stock)
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound orzo pasta
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup minced flat-leaf Italian parsley

Instructions

  1. Heat a large pot or high-walled pan to medium heat with 4 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter.
  2. Pat the salmon dry, season with Cajun spice on both sides, and sear for 3 minutes per side. Place the salmon on a plate and cover with foil.
  3. In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and the onion with a pinch of salt. Cook until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add the garlic and cook until fragrant (approximately 2 minutes).
  4. Add the tomatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes until they release their juices.
  5. Add the spinach, oregano, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
  6. Add the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the orzo, cover the pot, and turn the heat to low, letting it simmer for 8 minutes.
  7. After 8 minutes, uncover and nestle the salmon pieces into the orzo. Cover again and cook for another 4-6 minutes until both the orzo is tender and the salmon is cooked through.
  8. Remove from heat, mix in the lemon juice and parsley. Adjust salt and pepper if needed, and add more stock or olive oil for desired consistency.

Notes

For a bit more spice, double the Cajun seasoning. This recipe freezes well for up to three months.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Searing and Simmering
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 70g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg