Butternut Squash Risotto

Butternut Squash Risotto
Butternut Squash Risotto

Roast cubes of butternut squash and fold them into a creamy risotto, garnishing with fresh sage leaves for a comforting and seasonal dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups diced butternut squash
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Roasted pumpkin seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable or chicken broth over low heat and keep it warm.
  2. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  4. Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it starts to soften.
  5. Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir well to coat the rice with the butter and oil mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  6. If using, pour in the white wine and stir until it is absorbed by the rice.
  7. Begin adding the warm broth to the pot, one ladleful at a time. Stir the rice frequently and continue to add broth as each ladleful is absorbed. Repeat this process until the rice is cooked al dente, which usually takes around 20-25 minutes.
  8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Let the risotto rest for a few minutes before serving.
  10. Garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and flavor, if desired.
  11. Serve the Butternut Squash Risotto warm as a comforting and satisfying main course or as a side dish to complement your favorite protein.

Enjoy the creamy and hearty Butternut Squash Risotto, where the sweetness of butternut squash adds a delightful touch to the rich and creamy rice. It’s a delicious dish that captures the essence of fall and brings warmth to your table.