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Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach Recipe

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 17 reviews

This creamy orzo recipe features tender roasted butternut squash and fresh baby spinach, combined with Parmesan cheese and a touch of heavy cream for a luscious, comforting dish perfect as a main course or side.

Ingredients

Scale

Roasted Butternut Squash

  • 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Pasta and Sauce

  • 1½ cups orzo pasta
  • 3 cups vegetable broth (or water)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and black pepper to season evenly. Spread the squash out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the pieces are tender and lightly caramelized.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Toast Orzo: While the squash roasts, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Stir in the orzo pasta, toasting it lightly for 2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the orzo cook undisturbed for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender but still slightly al dente.
  4. Add Cheese, Cream, and Spinach: Stir the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream into the cooked orzo until creamy and smooth. Add the baby spinach and cook just until wilted, about 2 minutes. If using, mix in dried thyme and red pepper flakes for added flavor.
  5. Combine and Serve: Gently fold in the roasted butternut squash pieces into the creamy orzo mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
  • Vegetable broth can be replaced with chicken broth if preferred.
  • To make this dish vegan, use a plant-based butter, vegan Parmesan, and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
  • Orzo cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking and becoming mushy.
  • Adding red pepper flakes gives a subtle heat; adjust quantity to your taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: orzo, butternut squash, creamy pasta, roasted squash, spinach, vegetarian pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/creamy-orzo-with-roasted-butternut-squash-and-spinach-recipe/