Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish to enjoy during the colder months, look no further than this Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash recipe. The combination of creamy orzo pasta and sweet butternut squash creates a hearty, flavorful dish you’ll love

Plus, with the addition of RiceSelect Pearl Couscous, the dish gains an extra touch of elegance and texture. Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to learn more about RiceSelect Pearl Couscous and why it’s the perfect addition to this dish.

Discover RiceSelect Pearl Couscous

At RiceSelect, they pride themselves on producing top-quality rice and grains that elevate any meal. Their Pearl Couscous is no exception. Made from the highest quality ingredients, RiceSelect Pearl Couscous is a versatile and delicious addition to any recipe. Its small, pearl-shaped grains provide a delightful texture and absorb flavors exceptionally well.

By using RiceSelect Pearl Couscous in this Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash recipe, you’ll enhance the overall dish with its nutty flavor and pleasing mouthfeel. To try RiceSelect Pearl Couscous for yourself, you can find it here: https://riceselect.com/product/riceselect-pearl-couscous

Ingredients

 

To make this delectable Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup RiceSelect Pearl Couscous

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced

1 cup orzo pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started on preparing this delicious Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash.

Step 1

Cook RiceSelect Pearl Couscous

Start by cooking the RiceSelect Pearl Couscous according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside.

Step 2

Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Roast the squash in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 3

Cook the Orzo

While the butternut squash is roasting, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

Nutritional Benefits of This Recipe

The Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers several nutritional benefits. Let’s take a look at the goodness packed into this delicious dish:

Abundance of Vitamins and Minerals

This recipe is a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. Butternut squash, a key ingredient, is a rich source of vitamin A, which promotes healthy vision, supports immune function, and contributes to cell growth and development.

Fiber-Rich Ingredients

Both butternut squash and RiceSelect Pearl Couscous are excellent sources of dietary fiber. Fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy digestive system by promoting regular bowel movements, preventing constipation, and supporting gut health. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels, contributes to weight management, and promotes satiety.

Complex Carbohydrates

RiceSelect Pearl Couscous provides complex carbohydrates, which are a valuable source of sustained energy. Unlike simple carbohydrates, which can cause spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, complex carbohydrates are digested slowly, providing a steady release of energy throughout the day. 

Wholesome and Balanced Meal

This recipe offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a wholesome meal option. The inclusion of RiceSelect Pearl Couscous adds a touch of protein, while the combination of butternut squash and creamy sauce provides healthy fats.

Serving and Accompaniments

This Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash is a satisfying meal on its own, but you can also pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete and wholesome dinner. The creamy and cheesy flavors of the dish make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Fresh Green Salad

To balance the richness of the creamy orzo and butternut squash, serve this dish with a refreshing green salad. The crispness of the greens and tangy dressing will provide a delightful contrast to the comforting flavors of the main course.

Variations of This Recipe

One of the wonderful aspects of cooking is the ability to experiment and put your own twist on a recipe. The Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash recipe can be customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:

Add Protein: To make this dish more filling and protein-packed, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Simply sauté the protein of your choice separately and add it to the skillet along with the cooked RiceSelect Pearl Couscous and roasted butternut squash.

Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with plant-based alternatives. Coconut milk or cashew cream can provide a creamy texture, while nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor.

Gluten-Free Twist: If you follow a gluten-free diet, you can easily swap the orzo pasta for gluten-free pasta or quinoa. RiceSelect also offers gluten-free options, such as their RiceSelect Pearl Couscous made from gluten-free grains.

Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. This will give the dish a subtle kick and elevate the flavors to a new level.

How to properly store?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and warm it up in the microwave until heated through.

 

This Creamy Orzo with Butternut Squash recipe featuring RiceSelect Pearl Couscous is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its creamy texture, sweet and savory flavors, and the addition of RiceSelect Pearl Couscous, it’s a dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

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