April 06, 2026

One-Pan Skillet Salmon with Orzo, Spinach & Artichokes

Creamy, bright, and effortlessly elevated—your new go-to weeknight dinner.

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together in one pan (and without the stress), this One-Pan Skillet Salmon with Orzo, Spinach, and Artichokes is exactly that. Perfectly seasoned salmon is seared until it develops a lightly crisp edge, then nestled into a creamy, lemony orzo that cooks right in the same skillet with shallots, garlic, spinach, and tender artichokes.

A splash of lemon keeps everything vibrant, while fresh parsley ties it all together. It’s comforting, balanced, and just the right amount of indulgent—exactly the kind of meal we love.

And just like everything we create—from our cookie decorating kit to our cookie gift box collections—we believe food should feel good, taste incredible, and bring people together. At our feeling good bakery, we take pride in our process, our facility, our team, our products, and our mission to give back. We bake integrity into everything we do.

 

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One pan, easy cleanup

  • Perfect balance of creamy + fresh flavors

  • Customizable (dairy or plant-based options)

  • Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights

Pair it with one of our dessert boxes or a curated cookie assortment to turn dinner into a full experience.

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets (similar in size)

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Orzo

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta

  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

  • ½ cup heavy cream or canned full-fat coconut milk

  • 1 tablespoon butter (dairy or plant-based)

  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ cup shallots, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach

  • 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the salmon
    Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season evenly with paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  2. Sear to perfection
    Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add salmon skin-side down and cook for 3–4 minutes without moving, until golden and crisp. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

  3. Build the flavor base
    In the same pan, add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté shallots for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and chili flakes, cooking for 30 seconds.

  4. Cook the orzo
    Stir in orzo, broth, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on medium-low for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. Make it creamy
    Remove lid, stir in cream and spinach, and cook until wilted. Add artichokes and combine.

  6. Bring it all together
    Nestle salmon back into the skillet. Simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes until everything is warmed through.

  7. Finish fresh
    Top with parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon. Serve and enjoy. Xo

Tips for Success

  • Keep salmon pieces uniform
    Even sizing ensures even cooking.

  • Sear, don’t move
    Let the salmon develop that golden crust before flipping.

  • Slightly undercook at first
    It’ll finish cooking when added back to the orzo.

  • Stir like risotto
    Occasional stirring creates that creamy texture and keeps the orzo from sticking to the pan.

  • Control consistency
    Too thick? Add a splash of broth. Too loose? Let it simmer uncovered for a minute or two.

  • Finish with lemon + herbs
    This is what makes the dish truly shine.

  • Taste and adjust
    A pinch of salt or extra lemon can elevate everything.

Make It a Full Experience

This dish pairs beautifully with something sweet—because every great meal deserves a great finish. Whether it’s a dessert box, mini cookies, or one of our cookie gift boxes, we make it easy to turn everyday moments into something special.

Looking for something fun or giftable? Try a cookie kit, brownie subscription box, or even our cookie of the month club. From bulk cookies to thoughtfully curated vegan gifts, there’s something for every occasion (or no occasion at all).

Feed Your Soul Sweet Thank You Cookie and Brownie Box Feed Your Soul DIY Kits Dessert Boxes

Final Thoughts

Creamy, bright, and packed with flavor, this is one of those meals that feels a little special without any extra effort. It’s simple, satisfying, and made to be shared—just like everything we believe in.

From our kitchen to yours—enjoy every bite. 💛

Written by mya zoracki