Creamy Pumpkin Orzo

@cokocooks

It is not often that I make savory dishes with pumpkin. BUT, I do love squash and technically pumpkin is a squash. I decided to create a creamy pumpkin orzo that is a cozy meal to have all fall long. It is creamy, with a hint of sweetness, and a dash of freshness. The best part about this dish is it can be made in one pot, and comes together in about 20-25 minutes.

This recipe starts with some sauteed onions and garlics. Then I added in some orzo pasta with some chicken broth. The broth just allows the pasta to soak up a little more flavor. After the pasta cooks, a few tbsp of cream is added for some richness. For the pumpkin flare for this dish, some pumpkin puree is stirred in. My favorite part of the dish is the parmesan that is mixed in. It adds a delicious salty bite to complement the sweetness of the squash. Finally, a little lemon and some fresh parsley take the recipe to a whole new level. They bring all the flavors together.

To make this Creamy Pumpkin Orzo more satisfying, some chickpeas and roasted delicata squash bulk the dish up. Delicata is one of my a favorite fall squashes! It has a uniquely sweet flavor, while also holding up well after being roasted. With so many nutritional benefits, I love incorporating this squash into a variety of meals. You could also add in some chicken or sausage for a meat/protein source.

This creamy pasta is best eaten hot off the stove when the cheese is melted, but it also makes a fabulous lunch the following day. With the seasonal ingredients and coziness to this dish, it makes it a perfect meal for the season. Who can resist a creamy pasta!? The pumpkin adds just a subtle sweetness to this savory dish. It is super easy, healthy, and a comforting meal as the cooler temps come in. For another pasta recipe, be sure to check out my healthy Alfredo!

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Creamy Pumpkin Orzo Pasta

A orzo pasta mixed with parmesan, pumpkin, onion, garlic, chickpeas, parsley, and delicata squash.

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 5

Calories 377kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 large diced onion
• 3 cloves chopped garlic
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 can chickpeas drained
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 juice of lemon
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 bunch chopped parsley
• 1 delicata squash
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Chop delicata squash in half moon shapes and place on a roasting pan with parchment paper. Roast at 425 degrees for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
• In a large pan on medium high heat, sauté the onions and garlic for 3-5 minutes until softened.
• Add the orzo and chicken broth and bring to a low boil. Then cover and simmer for 15 minutes until broth is absorbed.
• Mix in cream, pumpkin, S&P, and parmesan and stir until well combined.
• Then add in parsley, lemon juice, chickpeas, and roasted delicata squash.
• Top with additional parmesan if desired and ready to serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 377kcal | Carbohydrates: 60g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 9g

* Follow me on instagram @_cokocooks for a video or feel free to ask questions or leave any comments!

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