Description
Butternut Squash & Sage Orzo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish made with roasted butternut squash, fragrant sage, and buttery orzo. It’s quick enough for a weeknight and elegant enough for holidays. A delicious vegetarian main or satisfying side dish.
Ingredients
2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 cup orzo pasta
1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional, for creaminess)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until golden and tender.
2. While the squash is roasting, cook orzo pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining oil or butter over medium heat. Add fresh sage leaves and cook until crisp (about 1–2 minutes). Remove and set aside on paper towels.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add roasted squash and cooked orzo. Stir to combine.
5. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen and create a creamy texture. Stir in Parmesan if using. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with crispy sage leaves and serve warm.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use butter instead of olive oil.
Use gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free version, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Add grilled chicken or sausage to make it a complete one-bowl meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: butternut squash, orzo, sage, vegetarian