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Healthy Vegetarian Dinner Recipe

Healthy Vegetarian Dinner Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 9 reviews

Enjoy a cozy and healthy vegetarian dinner with this creamy orzo recipe featuring roasted butternut squash and fresh spinach. This dish combines the sweetness of caramelized squash, the creamy texture of Parmesan and cream, and the nutritious boost of spinach for a comforting yet wholesome meal perfect for fall evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

Squash

  • 1 small butternut squash (about 2 cups diced)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Pasta and Broth

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)

Vegetables and Dairy

  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 garlic clove, minced

Optional Seasonings

  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh thyme (optional)
  • Nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Roast Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, seed, and dice the butternut squash into roughly 1-inch pieces. Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and black pepper to coat evenly. Spread the pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
  2. Cook Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add the dry orzo pasta, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is al dente.
  3. Add Spinach and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic or garlic powder along with the roughly chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and fragrant.
  4. Make it Creamy: Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) along with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. Season to taste with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes, fresh thyme, or a pinch of nutmeg.
  5. Add Squash: Gently fold the roasted butternut squash into the creamy orzo mixture, heating through for 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors meld together.
  6. Serve: Serve the creamy orzo warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this comforting and nutritious meal as is or pair with your favorite protein for a complete dinner.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the overall flavor of the orzo.
  • Avoid overcooking the orzo; al dente retains the best texture and prevents mushiness.
  • Allow the butternut squash to caramelize slightly in the oven to deepen its natural sweetness and flavor.
  • For added protein, consider mixing in roasted chickpeas or lentils.
  • If reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach, Butternut Squash Spinach Recipes, Vegetarian Orzo Recipes, Healthy Orzo Dinner, Fall Vegetarian Recipes

Find it online: https://reemcook.com/healthy-vegetarian-dinner-recipe/