Butternut Squash Risotto

Hey Everyone,

Simply Delightful!

With the pre-cut butternut squash readily available in stores, this recipe makes up quite easily.  For the life of me, I cannot remember where the recipe ever came from, but it certainly is a family favorite.  It serves two as a full dinner or makes four to six good size side dishes.

Butternut Squash Risotto

Ingredients:

3 cups vegetable broth

3/4 cup water
3 Tbsp. Bertolli Extra Light Virgin Olive Oil

2 containers of pre-cut butternut squash or two medium butternuts, peeled with the seeds removed and diced into half inch cubes

1 med - large sweet onion, diced

3/4 to 1 cup Arborio rice

1/4 cup and about another half of that, dry white cooking wine

3 Tbsp. freshly chopped chives
1/4 to 1/2 tsp. salt to taste
1/8 to 1/4 tsp. fresh ground pepper to taste

Wedge of Parmesan cheese, shaved
                                                                                                             Directions:

Squash and onion sauteing in olive oil.

Combine broth and water in a medium saucepan.  Bring to a simmer and then reduce heat to low and maintain.

Over medium heat in a large saucepan add olive oil and saute cubed butternut squash and onion.  Cook until the squash becomes tender and the onions start to brown a bit.  It usually takes about 15 to 18 minutes.  

Add the Arborio rice, stir continuously, and cook for about a minute.  Add the white wine and stir constantly until all liquid is absorbed.

Stirring constant and gentle, add a half ladle full of simmering broth and cook until the liquid is absorbed.  Repeat this step several times for about another 15 to 18 minutes. 

Add the simmering broth a little at a time.

The Arborio rice should be creamy-like in appearance and still have that true al dente structure when done.  

Reduce heat, stir in chives, season with salt & pepper, and serve immediately with a garnish of fresh-shaved Parmesan cheese.  See photo above.

A fresh baguette makes a nice compliment for a complete meal.

Hope You Enjoy and 

Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year,

Denise, Beds 25 & 29