Description
A delightful dish that combines orzo pasta with roasted butternut squash, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach, offering a comforting and nutritious meal option perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cubed butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and caramelized.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add orzo to the saucepan, stirring to coat with the butter. Cook for 2 minutes to slightly toast the pasta.
- Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy and most broth is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low and fold in spinach, stirring until wilted.
- Stir in roasted butternut squash, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan until well incorporated and creamy.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
Roasting the butternut squash until caramelized adds depth of flavor. Adjust seasoning for personal preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 45mg