Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

This delightful dish combines tender orzo pasta with sweet roasted butternut squash and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a light, creamy sauce. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the roasted butternut squash complements the mild, earthy taste of spinach and the creamy texture of orzo.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, this dish offers a wholesome meal option.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences and can be served as a main course or a side dish.

Ingredients

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

• Butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• Olive oil
• Fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper
• Orzo pasta
• Garlic, minced
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh spinach
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
2. Cook the Orzo: In a large, high-sided skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the uncooked orzo and toast for about 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add Italian seasoning, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
3. Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Serve: Gently fold the roasted butternut squash into the orzo mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: Approximately 10 minutes
• Cook Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese.
• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make the dish more filling.
• Gluten-Free: Replace orzo with a gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Extra Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or caramelized onions for additional flavor and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

What is orzo?

Orzo is a type of short-cut pasta that resembles large grains of rice. It’s commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean dishes.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Roast it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensuring all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, this dish is suitable for vegetarians.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or full-fat coconut milk. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Roast the butternut squash and cook the orzo separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve. Add the spinach and cream during the reheating process to maintain freshness.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the orzo and squash may change upon thawing and reheating.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

Stir the orzo occasionally while cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pan. Using a non-stick skillet can also help prevent sticking.

Can I add other herbs to this dish?

Absolutely! Fresh sage, rosemary, or basil can add different flavor profiles to the dish. Adjust the quantity to your taste preference.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to children. You can also customize the vegetables to suit their preferences.

Conclusion

Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is a versatile and comforting dish that brings together the hearty flavors of fall. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying side dish, this recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that are sure to please

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