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Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach Bliss

Delight in a comforting bowl of Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach, perfect for cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Substitute with ditalini or other small pasta if needed.
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth Water can be used as a substitution.
For the creamy base
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use plant-based butter for a vegan option.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Cream cheese can be swapped for extra indulgence.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free option.
For the vegetables
  • 1 medium Butternut Squash Can be substituted with zucchini or bell peppers.
  • 4 cups Baby Spinach Other greens like kale or Swiss chard can be used.
For the seasoning
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is preferred.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to taste.
  • to taste Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Can be omitted or swapped with Italian seasoning.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional.

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • baking sheet
  • knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step-by-step instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Dice the butternut squash, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta, toasting lightly for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently.
  4. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and simmer for 10-12 minutes until al dente.
  5. Stir in 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of heavy cream until creamy. Add fresh baby spinach until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Gently fold in the roasted butternut squash. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan or olive oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal flavor, roast the butternut squash until caramelized. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.

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