Description
Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is the ultimate comfort food that embodies the flavors of fall. This delectable dish features tender orzo pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, harmoniously paired with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash and the vibrant crunch of fresh spinach. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a nutritious option packed with vitamins and minerals. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this creamy orzo is sure to impress your guests while warming your heart.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash (cubed)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss cubed butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- In boiling salted water, cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted into a smooth sauce. Add roasted squash and fresh spinach.
- Stir in cooked orzo until well coated. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
– For added flavor, include herbs like thyme or rosemary during roasting.
– To make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg