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–+ servings

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

A delightful vegetarian dish featuring tender orzo pasta, roasted butternut squash, and fresh spinach in a creamy sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small butternut squash Peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Used for roasting the squash
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta The star of the dish, offering creaminess
  • 3 cups vegetable broth Can substitute with water for cooking the orzo
  • 2 tbsp butter Adds richness to the dish
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced for flavor enhancement
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese For creaminess and depth of flavor
  • 0.25 cup heavy cream To create that velvety texture
  • 2 cups baby spinach Roughly chopped for freshness
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme Optional, adds herbal notes if desired
  • pinch red pepper flakes Optional, adds a hint of heat if preferred
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley Finely chopped for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss the diced butternut squash in olive oil along with salt and black pepper until well coated. Spread the squash on a baking sheet in one layer and roast it in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes until it becomes tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. While the squash is roasting, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, then stir in the orzo pasta, lightly toasting it for around two minutes.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth or water into the saucepan with toasted orzo, bringing it to a simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for approximately 10–12 minutes until you achieve a tender consistency.
  5. Once your orzo is cooked, stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with heavy cream. Next, add roughly chopped spinach into the mixture, cooking just until wilted before folding in your beautifully roasted butternut squash.
  6. Adjust seasoning according to taste before serving warm on plates garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

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