Butternut squash orzo
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Instructions
Choose top-quality ingredients
Look for a fresh, ripe butternut squash with firm flesh and a rich, warm hue. Both are signs of natural sweetness. Opt for freshly ground spices, as they offer a fuller, more aromatic flavour. Extra virgin olive oil brings a distinct, rich aroma that complements the orzo.
Perfect the texture and flavour
Warming the stock slightly before adding it to the orzo makes sure it cooks evenly and has a creamy texture. Stir the orzo halfway through baking to release starches, which creates a slightly creamier consistency. Keep an eye on the liquid level, adding a splash more stock if it begins to look dry. Once the orzo is tender, let it rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven, allowing the flavours to meld and the cheese to set slightly before serving.
FAQ: Questions about butternut squash orzo
Be fully prepared for the butternut squash orzo recipe by reading our questions and answers below.
Nutritional values
Nutritional value, per
804 Kcal
| Fibre | 12.8 gram fibers |
| Protein | 25.2 % |
| Carbohydrates | 135.8 % |
| Fat | 17 gram |
Ingredients
|
Butternut squashes or pumpkin, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1 cm cubes
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350 g |
|---|---|
|
Harissa paste
|
1 tsp |
|
Olive oil
|
1 tbsp |
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Salt and pepper
|
|
|
A dash of olive oil
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|
|
Onion, finely chopped
|
1 |
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Garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
|
2 |
|
Pasta orzo
|
150 g |
|
Vegetable stock
|
270 ml |
| 100 g |
Other recipes
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Try our creamy butternut squash orzo
Our butternut squash orzo recipe combines a gentle sweetness with the aromatic warmth of harissa. The butternut squash, orzo, and vegetable stock come together for a rich and creamy delight. It is easy to enjoy as a main course or a starter in smaller portions. We love it as a creamy, cosy meal shared with friends and family around the table.
Spicy roasted butternut squash topped with white cheese
The butternut squash is a star ingredient in this recipe. Tossed with harissa paste, it develops a subtle warmth that enhances the squash’s natural sweetness, adding an intriguing spiciness. Roasting the squash to a gentle golden hue creates a soft, slightly caramelised texture.
Adding white cheese as a topping brings a satisfying contrast. Its mild, tangy taste complements the roasted squash, while providing a creamy texture that melts slightly into the warm orzo below. They give the meal an enjoyable mix of spice, sweetness, and smoothness.
Tender orzo simmered in rich vegetable stock
The orzo absorbs the rich, savoury vegetable stock to create a flavour-packed base. This small, rice-shaped pasta has a smooth, tender texture that works well with the other ingredients, giving the dish a satisfying bite.
Cooking the orzo with sautéed onions and garlic adds a savoury layer that runs through each spoonful, making it a wonderful backdrop for the roasted squash and tangy cheese.
The flavourful vegetable stock ensures each grain is tender and flavourful, offering a deliciously smooth texture that contrasts with the golden pieces of squash and the creamy hints from the cheese.
A warm and hearty risotto alternative
This butternut squash orzo yields the creamy satisfaction of risotto with a lighter, more approachable touch. Using orzo instead of traditional risotto rice keeps things simple, allowing the pasta to take on a tender, velvety texture as it bakes. This orzo captures the essence of risotto with a straightforward, delicious twist, whether you are looking to serve it as a main or as a hearty starter.
You might also enjoy our easy quinoa butternut squash salad, a light, refreshing twist on the orzo with the same sweet earthiness. For another satisfying pasta dish, our prawn and pea pasta recipe combines tender seafood with fresh, delicate flavours. Try the flavourful pumpkin and potato soup for a comforting bowl with seasonal warmth, or the roasted winter vegetables for a cosy side. And if you are looking for a risotto-like experience, our luxurious lobster risotto adds a touch of indulgence to any meal.
Substitute with your favourite ingredients
Experimenting with your orzo is easy and brings a fresh take with each ingredient swap. Adding kale or spinach gives you a subtle earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy orzo. Simply add the greens towards the end for a tender texture and vibrant colour.
For those who crave extra crunch, top the orzo with candied bacon or crispy chickpeas. Candied bacon provides a sweet-salty contrast that melts into the warm orzo, while roasted chickpeas add a nutty bite. Fresh herbs like sage or thyme also work beautifully here, bringing fresh aromatic notes. Sprinkle them over just before serving for the most fragrant effect.
If you cannot get butternut squash, pumpkin or acorn squash are perfect substitutes, adding a similar soft texture and gentle sweetness. Lastly, explore spices like paprika or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Or, for a bright finish, try a hint of lemon zest or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, adding a refreshing contrast.
