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Butternut Squash and Black Bean Orzo with Sausage and Spinach

Butternut Squash and Black Bean Orzo with Sausage and Spinach Delight

A hearty and nutritious Butternut Squash and Black Bean Orzo with Sausage and Spinach, perfect for weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course One-Pot Meals
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • skillet
  • Pot
  • baking sheet
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo

  • 1 cup orzo pasta a perfect base that absorbs delicious flavors

For the Vegetable Medley

  • 2 cups butternut squash, diced adds a sweet, nutty flavor
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil enhances the taste of roasted veggies
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 medium onion, chopped brings savory depth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced infuses the dish with deliciousness

For the Protein

  • 1 pound sausage (chicken or turkey) lean protein

For the Flavor Boost

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin adds warmth and flavor
  • 1 can black beans, drained provide extra protein
  • 2 cups fresh spinach adds vibrant color
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated adds creaminess
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped optional garnish
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens flavors

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, until fork-tender and caramelized.
  • While the squash is roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, approximately 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  • Stir in the ground cumin and let cook for an additional minute. Add the drained black beans and fresh spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts.
  • Fold in the roasted butternut squash and cooked orzo. Mix in the grated parmesan until well combined.
  • Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture, season to taste with salt and pepper, and stir again.
  • Serve in bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Notes

This dish can be served warm and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread. It’s also easily adaptable by swapping out proteins or adding in different vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 12gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15000IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3.5mg
Keyword Black Bean, Butternut Squash, Hearty Meals, Orzo, Sausage, Spinach
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