Description
A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender roasted butternut squash combined with sautéed spinach and garlicky orzo pasta, finished with a touch of fresh lemon juice and Parmesan cheese for a bright and savory meal perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Scale
Roasted Butternut Squash
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Orzo Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Sautéed Spinach and Garlic
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
Finishing Touches
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
- Cook the Orzo: While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic and Spinach: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme if using.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the spinach and garlic, stirring to combine evenly. Then add the roasted butternut squash and gently toss everything together to blend flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if you like.
Notes
- You can omit the butter and Parmesan to make the dish dairy-free.
- Dried thyme is optional but adds a nice earthy flavor.
- For extra protein, consider adding cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- The dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting and Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
