Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

A cozy and flavorful pasta dish made with tender roasted butternut squash, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked orzo. This comforting meal is packed with earthy sweetness, garlic flavor, and a touch of parmesan for a creamy finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the cubed butternut squash on a baking tray. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well.
3. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
4. Meanwhile, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
7. Stir in the cooked orzo and roasted butternut squash. Mix gently to combine.
8. Add parmesan cheese and chili flakes if using. Stir until creamy and heated through.
9. Garnish with parsley and toasted nuts before serving.

Tips

• Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Feta cheese works beautifully instead of parmesan.
• A squeeze of lemon juice adds freshness and balance.

Q/A

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I use frozen butternut squash?
A: Absolutely. Just roast it directly from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: Is this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, it’s completely vegetarian.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: It pairs well with garlic bread, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad.

Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes, simply replace parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast.