Cozy Winter Squash Risotto

Introduction

Today, I’m excited to share a unique and flavorful dish that always reminds me of cozy winter nights by the fireplace. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is something hearty and warming to fill you up. My Winter Squash Risotto with Caramelized Pears is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining creamy rice with sweet caramelized pears for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• arborio rice (200g)
• butternut squash, diced (300g)
• onion, finely chopped (1)
• vegetable broth (800ml)
• butter (50g)
• Parmesan cheese, grated (50g)
• sage, chopped (1 tbsp)
• pears, peeled and sliced (2)
• brown sugar (2 tbsp)
• olive oil (2 tbsp)
• salt and pepper, to taste

Kitchen Tools

• saucepan
• wooden spoon
• large skillet
• grater

Preparation

Start by heating the vegetable broth in a saucepan over low heat. In a large skillet, melt half of the butter and olive oil together. Add the chopped onion and diced butternut squash to the skillet, sautéing until the vegetables are tender.

Once the onions and squash are cooked, stir in the arborio rice, making sure each grain is coated in the buttery mixture. Slowly pour in a ladleful of warm vegetable broth, stirring continuously until absorbed. Repeat this process until all the broth has been added, and the rice is creamy and cooked al dente.

In a separate skillet, melt the remaining butter and sprinkle the brown sugar over the sliced pears. Cook until the pears are caramelized and golden.

Assembly

Once the risotto is cooked and creamy, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the risotto in bowls, topped with the caramelized pears and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

Tips for Success

For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the diced butternut squash in the oven before adding it to the risotto. This will give the dish a rich, caramelized taste that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pears.

Serving

This Winter Squash Risotto with Caramelized Pears serves four and each serving weighs approximately 400g. One serving is around 450 calories.

I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the unique combination of flavors in this dish. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own by adding nuts, herbs, or different varieties of squash. Happy cooking!