🍲 Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach
🌿 Description
This Mediterranean-inspired creamy orzo is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with sweet roasted butternut squash and fresh spinach. The squash becomes caramelized and slightly sweet in the oven, while the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce coats the orzo perfectly. It’s a cozy meal that feels like a cross between pasta and risotto—rich, satisfying, and full of wholesome ingredients.
🛒 Ingredients
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1½ cups orzo pasta
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2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups fresh spinach
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½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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2 cups vegetable broth
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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Optional: ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Roast the squash
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Cook the orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet.
Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and thyme and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Make the creamy sauce
Pour in vegetable broth and cream. Stir well and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.
5. Combine everything
Add the cooked orzo, roasted butternut squash, and spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts.
6. Finish the dish
Mix in Parmesan cheese and cook for another 1–2 minutes until creamy.
7. Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and toasted pine nuts if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy orzo with:
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Grilled chicken or salmon
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Roasted vegetables
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A fresh Mediterranean salad
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Garlic bread or warm pita
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes. Replace cream with coconut milk or plant-based cream and use vegan Parmesan.
Q: Can I add protein?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work wonderfully.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for 3 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I replace butternut squash?
Yes. Sweet potatoes or pumpkin work well as substitutes.
✨ Tip: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the creamy flavors.
