Description
This Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for fall or any season. The sweet roasted squash, tender spinach, and creamy orzo come together in a delicious, hearty meal that’s great as a side or a main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
Instructions
-
Roast the Butternut Squash:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. -
Cook the Orzo:
While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. -
Sauté the Garlic and Spinach:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with spinach and garlic, stirring to combine. Add the roasted butternut squash and toss everything together. -
Finish and Serve:
Stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute the spinach with other leafy greens, such as kale or arugula, for variety.
- Add toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for an extra crunch.
- This dish can be made vegan by omitting the butter and Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg