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Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

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A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender orzo pasta, sweet roasted butternut squash, and fresh spinach, all tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
For the Roasted Butternut Squash:
  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced (~½-inch cubes)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
For the Orzo:
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • ½ tsp lemon zest (for brightness)
For Garnish:

 

  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Roast the Butternut Squash:

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
    • Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized.

  2. Cook the Orzo:

    • In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Stir in the orzo and lightly toast for 1-2 minutes.
    • Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a gentle boil, and let simmer 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

  3. Make It Creamy:

    • Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
    • Add the chopped spinach and stir until wilted.

  4. Combine & Serve:

    • Gently fold in the roasted butternut squash and lemon zest.
    • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
    • Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Swap butternut squash for sweet potatoes or roasted pumpkin.
  • Add cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/creamy-orzo-with-roasted-butternut-squash-and-spinach/