Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Roasted Butternut Squash Orzo with Chicken Sausage is not just a meal; it's a perfect harmony of rustic flavors, textures, and nutritious ingredients that will elevate your weeknight dinner from mundane to magnificent. With golden-roasted butternut squash, perfectly seared chicken sausage, and tender orzo pasta, this recipe promises a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily create in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 chicken sausages, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh spinach for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the butternut squash by peeling, removing seeds, and cutting into 1-inch cubes. Ensure the pieces are roughly uniform in size for even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread the seasoned squash evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the butternut squash in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and the squash is tender.
- While the squash is roasting, slice the chicken sausages into half-inch thick rounds.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced chicken sausage until lightly browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the orzo pasta in a pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, cooked chicken sausage, and orzo pasta. Gently mix to distribute ingredients evenly.
- If the mixture seems dry, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to help the ingredients combine smoothly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with fresh spinach leaves just before serving for added color and a touch of freshness.
- Serve hot, ideally immediately after preparation to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Tips
- Uniform Cutting: When preparing butternut squash, ensure all cubes are roughly the same size for even roasting and consistent caramelization.
- Maximize Flavor: Don't be shy with seasoning. The combination of thyme, salt, and pepper will enhance the natural sweetness of the squash.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water. Its starchy goodness helps create a silky, cohesive sauce when mixing ingredients.
- Sausage Searing: For the best chicken sausage, cook it over medium heat to develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior without burning.
- Fresh Finish: Adding fresh spinach at the end not only provides a pop of color but also introduces a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that complements the roasted squash.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be partially prepared in advance. Roast the squash and cook the sausage earlier in the day, then quickly assemble before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 65mg
