Creamy Orzo with Leeks and Salmon

Save to Find It Later!

If you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal that still feels light and fresh, this creamy orzo with leeks and salmon is the perfect choice. It’s one of those recipes that feels a little fancy but requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed dinners. The combination of tender leeks, creamy sauce, and rich salmon creates a dish that’s flavorful, satisfying, and just the right amount of indulgent.

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet packed with flavor. The leeks turn buttery and sweet when cooked down, while the orzo absorbs all the goodness from the creamy sauce. And then there’s the salmon—whether you go for smoked or fresh, it adds a deliciously salty, slightly smoky bite that takes the dish to the next level. Plus, everything comes together in one pan, so you won’t be left with a sink full of dishes.

This orzo is also super adaptable. Want a lighter version? Use more Greek yogurt and less cream cheese. No salmon? Try it with shrimp or even crispy pancetta. It’s one of those meals you can tweak depending on what you have in the fridge, and it always turns out great.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Orzo

• Cook the leeks until soft – Whether you’re using fresh or frozen leeks, make sure they’re fully softened before adding the dairy. This brings out their natural sweetness and ensures they melt into the sauce.
• Don’t overcook the orzo – Orzo cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid it turning mushy. It should be just tender but still hold its shape.
• Balance the creaminess – Cream cheese makes the sauce rich, while Greek yogurt adds tanginess. Adjust the amounts depending on how creamy or light you want the dish.
• Choose your salmon wisely – Smoked salmon gives the dish a more intense, salty flavor, while fresh cooked salmon is milder and more delicate. Both work, but go with what you prefer.
• Season at the end – Smoked salmon is already salty, so taste the dish before adding salt to avoid over-seasoning.

Ingredients

• 200g (7 oz) orzo
• 1kg (2.2 lbs) frozen or fresh leeks
• Smoked salmon (as much as you want) or fresh cooked, pulled salmon
• 3 tablespoons cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• Salt and pepper to taste

Alternative Ingredients

• Use another pasta if needed – Orzo is perfect for this dish because it absorbs the creamy sauce well, but you could swap it for small pasta shapes like ditalini or even pearl couscous.
• Try a different protein – No salmon? This dish works beautifully with shrimp, grilled chicken, or even crispy pancetta for a different flavor profile.
• Lighten it up – Skip the cream cheese and use extra Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter sauce that still feels creamy.
• Add extra greens – Spinach, peas, or even chopped asparagus can be mixed in for extra freshness and color.

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions until it’s just tender. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Leeks

In a large pan, cook the leeks over medium heat until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. If using fresh leeks, slice them thinly before cooking. If using frozen, simply add them straight to the pan and cook until tender. This should take about 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the leeks are soft, stir in 3 tablespoons of cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt. Mix until everything is combined and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked orzo into the pan with the creamy leek mixture. Stir well so the pasta gets fully coated in the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Salmon

If using smoked salmon, simply tear it into bite-sized pieces and stir it in at the last minute. If using fresh cooked salmon, shred it gently with a fork before adding it to the pan. Let everything warm through for a minute, but don’t overcook the salmon.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed. If you used smoked salmon, you may not need much salt at all. Serve warm and enjoy this easy, creamy, and flavorful orzo!