Name: Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: – 1 cup orzo pasta; – 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced; – 2 tablespoons olive oil; – 1/2 teaspoon salt; – 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; – 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh); – 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; – 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; – 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped; – 2 tablespoons dried cranberries; – 1/4 cup fresh arugula or baby spinach; – 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; – 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; – 1 teaspoon honey

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If you’re looking for the perfect cozy yet refreshing dish, this Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash is a total game-changer. It’s packed with roasted butternut squash, tender orzo, and a mix of fresh herbs and bold flavors that make every bite pure comfort. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a hearty side, this warm salad will keep you coming back for more. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, making a cozy dinner, or bringing a dish to a gathering, this orzo salad is always a hit. Here’s why:

Versatile: Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled the next day—it’s delicious any way you serve it.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, seasonal ingredients that are easy to find and affordable.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

Customizable: Add protein, switch up the veggies, or play with different herbs to make it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: A comforting yet light dish that satisfies everyone at the table, from picky eaters to food lovers.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash

Here’s what makes this salad so special—it’s a perfect mix of textures and flavors that come together beautifully:

Orzo Pasta: Tiny, tender pasta that soaks up all the delicious flavors.

Butternut Squash: Sweet, caramelized, and roasted to perfection, adding a cozy touch.

Olive Oil: Enhances the richness and helps everything roast beautifully.

Garlic: Adds a deep, savory flavor that ties everything together.

Spinach or Arugula: Brings freshness and a pop of color to the dish.

Feta Cheese (optional): Creamy, tangy, and the perfect contrast to the sweet squash.

Toasted Nuts (like walnuts or pecans): Adds crunch and nuttiness to balance the flavors.

Fresh Herbs (like parsley or thyme): Brightens up the dish and adds depth.

Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity that brings everything together.

Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient.

Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Spread it out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and caramelized.

Cook the Orzo: While the squash is roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Greens: If using spinach or arugula, roughly chop it so it blends well with the pasta.

Combine Everything: In a large bowl, toss the cooked orzo with the roasted squash, fresh greens, toasted nuts, and crumbled feta (if using). Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Season and Adjust: Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm for a cozy meal or let it cool for a delicious pasta salad.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a well-balanced meal.
Pair with a warm bowl of soup for a cozy dinner.
Enjoy as a light vegetarian main dish with extra greens.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth of flavor.
Top with extra nuts or seeds for more crunch.

Additional Tips

Make it dairy-free by skipping the feta or using a dairy-free alternative.
Add protein by mixing in chickpeas, shredded chicken, or crispy tofu.
For extra flavor, roast the butternut squash with a sprinkle of cinnamon or smoked paprika.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold as a refreshing pasta salad.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While orzo works best, you can substitute it with couscous, quinoa, or small pasta shapes like ditalini.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes great cold or reheated!

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the squash and cook the orzo in advance. Just assemble everything when you’re ready to serve.

4. What nuts work best in this salad?
Walnuts, pecans, almonds, or even pine nuts add a great crunch and nutty flavor.

5. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, but fresh gives the best texture. If using frozen, roast it for a few extra minutes to remove excess moisture.

6. How can I make it more filling?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a can of drained chickpeas for extra protein.

7. What herbs go well with this dish?
Fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, or even basil add a lovely depth of flavor.

8. Can I use kale instead of spinach?
Yes! Just massage the kale with a bit of olive oil first to soften it.

9. Is this salad good for meal prep?
Definitely! It holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.

10. Can I add a dressing?
A light lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze would work beautifully with the flavors of this dish.

Conclusion

This Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash is the perfect balance of cozy and fresh. It’s comforting, flavorful, and packed with good-for-you ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or prepping it ahead for lunches, it’s a dish you’ll want to keep in your rotation. So grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’re going to love it!