Description
Mediterranean-inspired orzo with roasted butternut squash and spinach delivers a symphony of rustic flavors and wholesome ingredients. Delicate pasta mingles with caramelized squash and fresh spinach, creating a comforting meal you’ll savor with each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
Seasoning and Aromatics:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon butter (or olive oil)
Garnish:
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the butternut squash for roasting by cutting into uniform cubes, ensuring even cooking and caramelization.
- Mix squash with aromatic spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then coat thoroughly with olive oil.
- Spread seasoned squash pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a single layer to promote crispy edges.
- Roast in a preheated oven at 400F for 20-25 minutes, rotating midway to achieve golden-brown coloration and tender texture.
- While squash roasts, warm butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, releasing fragrant garlic notes.
- Introduce orzo to the skillet, gently toasting until slightly golden and releasing a nutty aroma.
- Carefully pour vegetable broth into the skillet, allowing orzo to simmer and absorb liquid gradually.
- Stir occasionally during cooking, ensuring orzo reaches a creamy, al dente consistency.
- Reduce heat and incorporate heavy cream, creating a luxurious base for the dish.
- Blend in freshly grated Parmesan, enhancing the sauce with rich, savory undertones.
- Add red pepper flakes and black pepper for subtle heat and depth of flavor.
- Gently fold in fresh spinach, allowing leaves to wilt and integrate into the creamy mixture.
- Incorporate roasted butternut squash, mixing delicately to preserve individual ingredient textures.
- Finish with bright lemon zest, providing a citrusy counterpoint to the rich, creamy orzo.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan and chopped herbs, serving immediately for optimal taste and temperature.
Notes
- Customize spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes and smoked paprika according to personal heat preference.
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or plant-based alternatives for dairy-free version, ensuring creamy texture remains consistent.
- Toast orzo carefully to enhance nutty flavor without burning, watching pan closely during 1-2 minute toasting process.
- Select smaller butternut squash cubes for faster, more even roasting and better integration with orzo texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg