Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

1. Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the squash. Peel and seed the butternut squash, then cut it into 1-inch cubes. Toss the cubes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and ground cinnamon (if using) to coat them evenly.
3. Roast the squash. Spread the squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is golden brown and fork-tender.

Stage 2: Preparing the Creamy Orzo

1. Cook the orzo. While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the broth and cream. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture cook for about 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
4. Add the cheese. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the spinach. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and softens.

Stage 3: Bringing It All Together

1. Combine the orzo and sauce. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the creamy sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
2. Add roasted squash. Gently fold the roasted butternut squash into the orzo and sauce mixture, mixing everything together carefully.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Stage 4: Serving

1. Serve. Spoon the creamy orzo onto plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped thyme or basil, if desired.
2. Enjoy! Serve as a delicious vegetarian main dish or alongside grilled chicken, fish, or other mains.

Tips for the Best Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach:

• Roast the squash for extra flavor. The caramelized edges of the roasted butternut squash bring a deep, sweet flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Add protein. For a heartier meal, add some grilled chicken, bacon, or even chickpeas to the dish.
• Use fresh spinach. Fresh spinach wilts down nicely, adding both color and nutrients to the dish.
• Customize the cheese. You can mix in other cheeses like goat cheese, mozzarella, or a sharp cheddar to change up the flavor profile.
• Make it ahead. This dish reheats well, so you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts:

This Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the creamy richness of the orzo with the sweetness of roasted squash and the freshness of spinach. It’s a perfect fall or winter meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Enjoy!