Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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.
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