Imagine a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate - welcome to the world of Butternut Squash Orzo with Kale! This isn't just another vegetarian recipe; it's a culinary journey that promises to elevate your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. With golden-roasted butternut squash, perfectly cooked orzo, and vibrant kale, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
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 carefully peeling the skin using a sharp vegetable peeler. Cut the squash in half, remove seeds, and cube into 1-inch uniform pieces to ensure even roasting.
- Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. 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 when pierced with a fork.
- While the squash roasts, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Wash the kale thoroughly, remove stems, and chop into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- When the orzo is cooked, drain in a colander and return to the pot. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and gently mix.
- Add the roasted butternut squash and chopped kale to the orzo. Toss gently to combine, allowing the residual heat to slightly wilt the kale.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm as a hearty vegetarian main dish or side.
Tips
- Uniform Cutting: When cubing the butternut squash, aim for consistent 1-inch pieces to ensure even roasting and beautiful presentation.
- Olive Oil Trick: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for roasting to enhance the natural sweetness of the butternut squash.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread the squash in a single layer on the baking sheet to achieve those delicious golden-brown edges.
- Kale Preparation: Remove the tough stems from kale and chop into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
- Seasoning Secret: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end - the roasting and cooking process can concentrate flavors differently.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and gently reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 183kcal
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
