Butternut Squash with Whole Grain Pilaf
Fresh thyme really shines in this hearty slow-cooked side dish featuring tender butternut squash, nutritious whole grain pilaf and vitamin-packed baby spinach.
—TASTE OF HOME TEST KITCHEN
PREP: 15 MIN. • COOK: 4 HOURS • MAKES: 12 SERVINGS (3/4 CUP EACH)
1 cup Kashi whole grain pilaf
1 medium butternut squash (about 3 pounds), cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 cup water
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 package (6 ounces) fresh baby spinach
Place pilaf in a 4-qt slow cooker. In a large bowl, combine the squash, broth, onion, water, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper; add to slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until pilaf is tender, adding spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.