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Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash

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This warm orzo pasta salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring roasted butternut squash, peppery arugula, and a maple Dijon vinaigrette. It’s a hearty yet light dish that works as a vegetarian main or a flavorful side. Whether you’re looking for healthy recipes, recipes for dinner, or simple high-protein meals, this dish is a great choice

Ingredients

Scale

  1. For the Salad:

    • 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed (½-inch pieces)

    • 2 tbsp olive oil

    • 1 tbsp fresh thyme

    • 1 tsp maple syrup

    • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

    • 12 oz orzo pasta

    • 3–4 cups arugula

    For the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette:

    • ¼ cup olive oil

    • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

    • 2 tbsp maple syrup

    • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

    • 1 tsp kosher salt

    • 1 shallot, minced

Instructions

  • Roast the Butternut Squash:

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    • In a large bowl, toss butternut squash with olive oil, thyme, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

    • Spread onto the sheet pan and roast for 20-25 minutes, until soft and caramelized.

  • Cook the Orzo:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

    • Add the orzo and cook until al dente, following package instructions.

    • Drain and set aside.

  • Make the Vinaigrette:

    • Combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and minced shallot in a jar.

    • Shake well to emulsify.

 

  • Assemble the Salad:

    • In a large serving bowl, toss the roasted butternut squash with the orzo and vinaigrette.

    • Adjust seasoning with extra salt or olive oil if needed.

    • Mix in arugula just before serving to maintain freshness

Notes

  • The butternut squash can be roasted ahead of time to save time on busy days.

  • For a heartier meal, add some roasted chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

 

  • If you don’t have maple syrup, honey can be used as a substitute.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://grandmarecipesflash.com/warm-orzo-pasta-salad-with-butternut-squash/