Description
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes,
until tender and slightly caramelized.
While the squash is roasting, cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the roasted butternut squash, cooked orzo, balsamic vinegar, and thyme to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Remove from heat and toss in the grated parmesan cheese and walnuts (if using).
Serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 280 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Roast the Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss 2 cups cubed butternut squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a parchment-lined sheet for 25-30 minutes until fork-tender and caramelized at the edges.
2. Cook the Orzo: While squash roasts, cook 1 cup orzo in salted boiling water according to package directions (typically 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. Wilt the Spinach: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cups chopped spinach and cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes until fully wilted.
4. Combine: To the skillet with spinach, add the roasted squash, drained orzo, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, and 1 tbsp fresh thyme. Gently stir everything to combine and heat through.
5. Finish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in ¼ cup grated parmesan and ¼ cup chopped walnuts (if using) until the cheese melts and coats the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with various proteins. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or baked tofu for a complete meal. For a lighter option, it can be a stellar main course with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Garnish with extra parmesan, a crack of black pepper, and a fresh thyme sprig.
How-to Summary
Roast cubed butternut squash with oil, salt, and pepper. Cook orzo pasta separately. Wilt spinach in a skillet, then combine all ingredients with balsamic vinegar, thyme, parmesan, and optional walnuts. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to refresh.
What can I use instead of butternut squash? Sweet potato or acorn squash are excellent substitutes. Adjust roasting time as needed for the different vegetable.
Is there a gluten-free alternative to orzo? Absolutely. Use a gluten-free pasta like brown rice orzo or substitute with quinoa for a grain-based option.
Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes, but ensure it’s thawed and patted very dry before roasting to avoid steaming. The texture may be slightly softer.
How can I make this recipe vegan? Omit the parmesan cheese or use a high-quality vegan parmesan alternative. Ensure the pasta is egg-free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Spread squash in a single layer. Crowding causes steaming, preventing proper caramelization.
- Overcooking the Orzo: Cook al dente as it will soften further when combined with other ingredients.
- Skipping the Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient adds crucial acidity that balances the sweetness of the squash; don’t omit it.
- Adding Cheese While on High Heat: Always remove the skillet from heat before adding parmesan to prevent it from clumping or becoming greasy.
Conclusion
This Butternut Squash Orzo with Spinach is a celebration of simple, seasonal ingredients coming together to create a dish that is both comforting and elegant. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, along with satisfying textures, it’s a recipe that reliably impresses with minimal effort. Mastering the easy techniques outlined here will ensure a delicious result every time, making it a valuable addition to your weekly meal rotation.