Butternut Squash Orzo

If you're looking for a cozy, savory and sweet dish to bring around for the holidays, I have the perfect dish for you. My family loves all things butternut squash. It's one of Elliott's favorite foods and my husband is always asking for more of this orzo.

This is a showstopper during the holidays so if you're looking to impress a crowd, consider bringing this to the party!

It's great served warm or cold. however you choose to enjoy this dish, it's sure to make a mark! Leave a comment below letting me know if you love this orzo as much as we do!

Ingredients

The Salad 1 butternut squash 1 lb orzo 5 oz arugula 1 large apple 1/2 cup raisins fresh oregano 1/2 tsp cinnamon t/2 tsp ground clove 1/2 tsp ginger 2 shallots 5 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp red pepper flakes

Dressing 2 tbsps local honey 2 lemons, juiced 1 tbsp white wine vinegar 1/3 cup olive oil fresh thyme salt, pepper

Instructions

To save some time later, I like to make my dressing first. Add ingredients to a jar or a bowl and mix well.

Preheat the oven to 400° Fahrenheit

Skin the peel off the butternut squash.

Carefully, split the squash in half and remove the seeds.

Optional: save seeds to toast.

Chop into 1 inch cubes then scoop onto baking sheet.

Drizzle with olive oil, cinnamon, ginger, clove, and salt / pepper. Toss well together.

Lay a few sprigs of fresh oregano and fresh thyme throughout the sheet.

Bake for 30-40 minutes. I normally check mine about halfway through.

When butternut squash is cooked, remove from oven, and let cool.

Follow the instructions for your orzo and set aside. Drizzle with olive oil to keep from sticking together.

Dice the apple into small chunks, slice the shallots, and mince the garlic.

Using a pan, turn stove top on medium low heat.

Add 2 tbsp olive olive, then add the shallot, raisins, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes

Add salt and pepper then stir consistently for about 1 minute. Pour into a large mixing bowl.

Assembly:

• Add the orzo, butternut squash, apple, and arugula to the large mixing bowl holding the raisins.

• Pour dressing over and toss generously.

• Salt and pepper to taste

Serve immediately or chill in fridge.

How I Serve

With Oven Roasted Herb Chicken

Served Warm.

Shred a roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken and toss in with orzo.

Great served warm or chilled.

As a side dish during the holidays!

Thanks for checking in!

xx Lauren