Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Trust me, this dish is everything you didn’t know you were craving. Imagine perfectly roasted butternut squash—sweet, caramelized, and buttery—tossed with orzo, that soft little pasta that practically melts in your mouth. And then, just when you think it couldn’t get better, you’ve got the earthy goodness of spinach sneaking in for a little green balance. It’s cozy, it’s satisfying, and the flavors will have you feeling all warm and content inside. This one’s a total game-changer, and I’m so excited for you to try it

Why You’ll Love Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

This isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking a cozy dinner for yourself or impressing guests with your cooking skills (they’ll totally ask for the recipe), this dish has got you covered.

Here’s why I know you’re going to love it:

Versatile: You can enjoy this as a side or a main, and it fits perfectly for dinner, lunch, or meal prep. It’s the kind of dish that’s equally at home on a busy weeknight or at a weekend dinner party.

Budget-Friendly: It’s made with simple ingredients, but the flavors are anything but basic. Roasted squash, orzo, and spinach—these everyday ingredients combine in the best way possible.

Quick and Easy: Don’t worry about complicated steps. This dish comes together quickly with minimal effort—perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned kitchen pros.

Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a guaranteed hit. People of all ages will love the combination of sweet squash and savory spinach—trust me, it’s a total crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients in Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

The magic of this dish comes from the most comforting ingredients. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to bring this beauty to life:

• Butternut Squash: Sweet, tender, and roasted to golden perfection. It’s like the heart and soul of the dish!
• Orzo: Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up all the flavors, making every bite delicious.
• Spinach: A handful of fresh spinach brings color and earthy goodness to balance the sweetness of the squash.
• Olive Oil: To toss everything in and get that perfect, crispy roast on the squash.
• Garlic: Adds that rich, aromatic flavor that ties everything together.
• Parmesan (optional): A little sprinkle on top just takes this dish to the next level.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning and making sure everything is perfectly balanced.

(Note: the full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking and turn these simple ingredients into something magical:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your squash roasts beautifully and gets that golden, caramelized color we’re after.

Roast the Squash: Peel, cube, and toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a baking sheet in a single layer, and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned at the edges.

Cook the Orzo: While the squash is roasting, cook your orzo in a pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Drain it and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the spinach and cook until it’s wilted, stirring occasionally.

Toss It All Together: Once the squash is roasted and your orzo is ready, toss everything into the skillet with the spinach. Stir it all together, making sure the flavors combine beautifully.

Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve the dish warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired, and enjoy!

How to Serve Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

This dish is versatile enough to pair with so many sides, but it’s also fantastic on its own. Here are a few ideas to make it even better:

Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this rich dish. Think arugula or mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.

Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices, or make it extra special with some garlic bread.

Protein: If you’re looking for extra protein, this dish goes beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a scoop of hummus.

Extra Veggies: If you want more vegetables, try adding roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed broccoli on the side.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop and cube the squash ahead of time, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, it’ll save you some prep time!
• Spice It Up: Feel free to add some cayenne or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
• Dietary Adjustments: If you want to make it vegan, skip the Parmesan and add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to keep everything fresh.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the butternut squash with another vegetable?
A1: Yes! You can use sweet potatoes or carrots if you prefer a different flavor, though the texture might vary a bit.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated when you’re ready to enjoy.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: You can freeze the squash and orzo mixture separately, but the spinach might not have the same texture once frozen. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little extra olive oil or water to keep it moist.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Just be sure to use a large enough baking sheet for the squash and adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
A7: Yes! Simply swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A8: Roasted veggies, a crisp green salad, or even some grilled chicken would all pair beautifully.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: You can reduce the oil or skip the Parmesan for a lighter version.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A large, rimmed baking sheet works best for roasting the squash, and a nonstick skillet will make sautéing the spinach easier.

Conclusion

This Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is a perfect blend of flavors and textures—sweet, savory, hearty, and fresh. It’s comforting enough for a cozy dinner but fancy enough for guests, and it’ll leave everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, you’ll be making this one over and over again!

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