Recipe: Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto

 

Ingredients:

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced into small cubes
• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Butternut Squash:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Risotto:

   • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the Arborio Rice:

   • Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted and translucent around the edges.

4. Deglaze with Wine (Optional):

   • If using, pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine has evaporated.

5. Begin Adding Broth:

   • Begin adding the warm vegetable broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the broth is absorbed before adding the next ladleful. Continue this process until the rice is cooked al dente and creamy, about 18-20 minutes.

6. Incorporate Butternut Squash and Sage:

   • Stir in the roasted butternut squash cubes and chopped fresh sage leaves during the last few minutes of cooking. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Finish with Butter and Parmesan:

   • Remove the risotto from the heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if needed.

8. Serve:

   • Serve the butternut squash and sage risotto immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh sage leaves if desired.

9. Enjoy!

   • Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this butternut squash and sage risotto, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Each creamy bite showcases the delicious combination of sweet roasted squash and fragrant sage infused into the velvety Arborio rice.