There’s something magical about a warm, cozy bowl of pasta, especially when it’s packed with vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients. This Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash is exactly that—a delightful mix of tender orzo, caramelized butternut squash, and a medley of fresh, aromatic flavors. It’s comforting yet light, making it perfect for any season.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner, a side dish that steals the show, or a meal-prep-friendly option for busy days, trust me, this one’s a game-changer. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it great for meal prep, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home.
Budget-Friendly
Uses simple pantry staples like orzo, butternut squash, and a few fresh ingredients to create an unforgettable dish without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy
With straightforward steps and minimal prep, this recipe comes together effortlessly—even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
Customizable
Want to add some protein? Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crispy tofu. Prefer a little extra heat? Sprinkle in some chili flakes or smoked paprika.
Crowd-Pleasing
The combination of sweet butternut squash, nutty orzo, and bright, fresh herbs is a surefire hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients in Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash
Orzo
A tiny, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up flavors beautifully. It adds a tender bite and a wonderful texture to the dish.
Butternut Squash
Roasted to golden perfection, this adds a touch of natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
Olive Oil
Enhances the richness of the dish while bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Garlic
Aromatic and slightly spicy, garlic gives the dish depth and warmth.
Spinach
Adds a pop of color and freshness, wilting just enough to blend seamlessly with the pasta.
Parmesan Cheese
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan ties everything together with its salty, umami richness.
Lemon Juice
A bright, citrusy finish that balances the sweetness of the butternut squash.
Salt and Pepper
Brings out all the flavors and keeps everything well-seasoned.
Optional Additions
Try adding toasted nuts for crunch, feta cheese for tang, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a hint of sweetness.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
Cook the Orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked orzo and roasted butternut squash to the pan. Toss everything together, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
Finish with Cheese and Lemon
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan and a generous squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve and Enjoy
Dish it up warm and garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, or toasted nuts for a delightful finishing touch.
How to Serve Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash
- As a Main Dish: Enjoy a hearty serving on its own, topped with extra cheese or a drizzle of olive oil.
- As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
- Meal Prep Option: Make a big batch and store it for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- Party-Ready: Serve in a large bowl with a side of crusty bread for an easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: Roast the butternut squash and cook the orzo in advance to make assembling the salad even quicker.
- Boost the Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein-packed version.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Make it Vegan: Swap the Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Add a Crunch: Toss in some toasted pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for extra texture.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! While orzo works great, you can swap it with couscous, quinoa, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini or farfalle.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! This salad tastes great fresh, but it also holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently or enjoy it at room temperature.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: While you can freeze it, the texture of the orzo and spinach may change slightly. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Q5: How can I add more flavor?
A5: Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Q6: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A6: Warm it in a pan over low heat with a splash of olive oil or a bit of broth to loosen it up.
Q7: Can I make this gluten-free?
A7: Yes! Just swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
Q8: What proteins pair well with this dish?
A8: Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu are excellent protein additions.
Q9: Can I add a dressing to this pasta salad?
A9: A simple lemon vinaigrette or a balsamic glaze would complement the flavors beautifully.
Q10: Can I serve this cold?
A10: Yes! While it’s meant to be enjoyed warm, it also makes a delicious chilled pasta salad.
Final Thoughts
This Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. It’s cozy yet refreshing, easy to make yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to the table.
Print
Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This warm orzo pasta salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring roasted butternut squash, peppery arugula, and a maple Dijon vinaigrette. It’s a hearty yet light dish that works as a vegetarian main or a flavorful side. Whether you’re looking for healthy recipes, recipes for dinner, or simple high-protein meals, this dish is a great choice!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
-
3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed (1/2-inch pieces)
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tbsp fresh thyme
-
1 tsp maple syrup
-
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-
12 oz orzo pasta
-
3-4 cups arugula
For the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette:
-
1/4 cup olive oil
-
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
-
2 tbsp maple syrup
-
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
-
1 tsp kosher salt
-
1 shallot, minced
Instructions
1. Roast the Butternut Squash:
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a large bowl, toss butternut squash with olive oil, thyme, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
-
Spread onto the sheet pan and roast for 20-25 minutes, until soft and caramelized.
2. Cook the Orzo:
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
-
Add the orzo and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
-
Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Vinaigrette:
-
Combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and minced shallot in a jar.
-
Shake well to emulsify.
4. Assemble the Salad:
-
In a large serving bowl, toss the roasted butternut squash with the orzo and vinaigrette.
-
Adjust seasoning with extra salt or olive oil if needed.
-
Mix in arugula just before serving to maintain freshness.
Notes
-
Serve warm or at room temperature.
-
Add crumbled feta or toasted nuts for extra texture.
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg