🥣 Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach
A warm, comforting, and healthy dish that beautifully blends sweet roasted butternut squash with nutty orzo and tender spinach. Great as a vegetarian main or side.
🍽️ Servings:
2–3 servings
⏱️ Prep & Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: ~35–40 minutes
🛒 Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
🔪 Instructions:
- Roast the Squash:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss cubed squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes or until golden and tender.
- Cook Orzo:
- In the meantime, boil salted water in a pot.
- Cook orzo according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Spinach:
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add spinach and sauté until just wilted (about 2 minutes). Add a pinch of salt.
- Combine Everything:
- Add cooked orzo and roasted squash to the skillet with spinach.
- Toss in Parmesan cheese and mix gently.
- Add lemon juice and chili flakes (if using) for extra flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
📝 Notes:
- You can substitute kale or arugula for spinach.
- Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese.
- Great served warm or at room temperature as a pasta salad.
💡 Tips:
- Dice squash into small, even cubes for faster and even roasting.
- Don’t overcook the orzo; slightly al dente works best.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives better flavor than pre-packaged.
⚖️ Nutritional Info (per serving — approx.):
- Calories: 350–400 kcal
- Protein: 10–12g
- Carbohydrates: 45–50g
- Fat: 14–16g
- Fiber: 5–7g
- Calcium: ~200mg
(Varies depending on cheese amount and oil used)
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Butternut squash is rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Spinach offers iron, calcium, and folate.
- Orzo provides energy-giving carbs, and Parmesan adds calcium and protein.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water before sautéing.
Q: Is this good for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! Keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat gently or enjoy cold.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes, just omit Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese.