Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach
Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is a comforting dish that beautifully marries the rich, creamy texture of orzo pasta with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash and the vibrant green of fresh spinach. This recipe not only warms your soul but also delights your taste buds with its delightful flavor profile. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish can be prepared quickly while still offering a satisfying meal that feels homemade. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a bowl filled with warmth, nutrition, and comfort that everyone at your table will love. Serve it as a main course or alongside grilled chicken for an even heartier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups diced butternut squash
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss diced butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Cook orzo in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant; add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until combined; add roasted squash and cooked orzo.
- Mix well and serve hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of heavy cream.
- To make it vegan-friendly, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and omit Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (230g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg