Description
A cozy, flavorful orzo dish tossed with tender roasted butternut squash, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan perfect as a comforting vegetarian main or hearty side.
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
3 cups vegetable broth
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter
Fresh parsley or sage for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, bring vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan.
5. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain if needed.
6. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
7. Stir in cooked orzo and roasted squash until well combined.
8. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Notes
Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
Crumble goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.
This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasted
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/4 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: orzo with butternut squash, roasted squash orzo, vegetarian orzo recipe