Butternut Squash Orzo with Cherries & Pecans Recipe

Name: Butternut Squash Orzo with Cherries & Pecans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole Butternut Squash, Peeled, Seeds Removed, Then Cubed; 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil, Divided; 1/2 boxes Orzo Pasta (1 Pound Box); 3/4 cups Pecans; 1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Fresh Rosemary, Minced; 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice; 1/2 cups Dried Cherries; 1 cup Arugula

Servings: persons

1
Preheat the oven to 450 F.
2
On a rimmed baking sheet, toss squash with half of the olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until soft.
3
Turn squash halfway during roasting.
4
While the squash is baking, boil and drain orzo according to package instructions.
5
Optional: Toast pecans in a hot, dry pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes tossing occasionally.
6
This really enhances their flavor.
7
Once the orzo and butternut squash are finished, put the drained orzo back into the pot.
8
Then add the remaining ingredients, except the arugula, together in the orzo pot.
9
Dont forget the remaining half of the olive oil.
10
Toss to combine then plate.
11
Sprinkle the arugula on top of the pasta right before serving.
12
Notes: Substitutions: Dried cherries and pecans can be quite expensive but I scored bulk bags at Costco!
13
You can easily substitute dried cranberries and almonds for a budget friendly option.
14
See related blog link for step-by-step pictures on how to cut a butternut squash and make this dish.

445

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 whole Butternut Squash, Peeled, Seeds Removed, Then Cubed, 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil, Divided, 1/2 boxes Orzo Pasta (1 Pound Box), 3/4 cups Pecans, and more.

Yes, Butternut Squash Orzo with Cherries & Pecans falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Butternut Squash Orzo with Cherries & Pecans

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions