Creamy Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto with Toasted Pine Nuts

Butternut squash and sage risotto is not just a dish for special occasions; it embodies comfort, creamy textures, and the rich sweetness of a beloved gourd. Transitioned to a plant-based diet but missing that creamy risotto feel? Don’t worry! This risotto recipe is here to satisfy that craving. Beyond being a treat for your taste buds, this risotto is packed with nutrients, ideal for those seeking a beauty boost. Whether you’re an enthusiastic home chef, a food connoisseur, or interested in maintaining healthy, vibrant hair, this blog post will enhance your culinary and personal well-being. Join us in exploring this delicious recipe for Creamy Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto with Toasted Pine Nuts.

What Makes Butternut Squash Risotto So Special?

Risottos are known for being creamy and comforting, and this butternut version certainly checks those boxes. But what makes it truly special are the ingredients that are packed with nutrients that are great for your hair, skin, and overall well-being.

What are the Key Ingredients?

Butternut squash is high in vitamin A, which is known to promote the regeneration of skin cells, keeping your complexion healthy. Additionally, it’s an excellent source of beta-carotene which converts into vitamin A in the body.

How Does Sage Enhance the Dish?

Sage brings a warm, woodsy flavor to the sweet butternut squash, offering a unique taste that’s both earthy and herbaceous. Sage is also rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help maintain clear, vibrant skin.

Why are Pine Nuts the Perfect Topping?

Pine nuts add a buttery richness and a crunchy texture to the risotto. They’re also loaded with nutrients like vitamins E and K, which contribute to skin health and can boost collagen production for a more youthful appearance.

The Beauty in Every Bite

It’s not just the creamy decadence or earthy undertones that make this dish a standout; it’s the fact that every spoonful offers a boost to your beauty and wellness. From nurturing your curly locks to promoting luminous skin, these ingredients are doing double-duty as they deliver a taste of luxury straight to your kitchen.

The Nutritional Benefits for Your Hair and Skin

This plant-based dish includes a rich selection of beauty-enhancing ingredients. Butternut squash is high in vitamin C, which is essential for the production of collagen, the protein that keeps our skin elastic and prevents hair from breaking. It also contains vitamin E, which can protect against sun damage and acts as an antioxidant.

How This Plant-Based Dish Nourishes Curly Hair

Curly hair needs extra attention and moisture, especially when it comes to maintaining its natural bounce and shine. Butternut squash provides hydration and promotes hair growth, thanks to its high potassium content.

Spotlight on Key Nutrients for Beauty and Wellness

Sage is known for its significant amounts of calcium and vitamin K, contributing to bone health, which indirectly can support hair growth and prevent hair thinning. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also help alleviate dandruff and itchy scalp, often a bane to those with curly hair.

The Creamy, Dreamy Recipe

Now that we’ve dived into the beauty benefits of our key ingredients, it’s time to prepare this sumptuous dish. Follow these steps for a creamy, dreamy plant-based butternut squash and sage risotto:

List of Ingredients

• For the risotto:
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup arborio rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cups vegetable stock
• 1 cup dry white wine — for the 21 yo and over 😉
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the sage oil:
• Handful of fresh sage leaves
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• For serving:
• Toasted pine nuts
• Vegan parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Toss the diced butternut squash in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then spread evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.
2. While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a deep skillet or a wide, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the arborio rice to the skillet with the onion and stir for 1-2 minutes until the rice is coated in the oil and slightly translucent around the edges.
4. Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly, until the wine is absorbed by the rice.
5. Begin adding the vegetable stock, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the stock is almost completely absorbed before adding the next ladle, and adjust the heat as needed to keep the risotto at a gentle simmer.
6. Once the risotto is creamy and the rice is al dente (about 20 minutes), stir in the roasted butternut squash, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. In a small skillet, heat the 1/4 cup of olive oil for the sage oil over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and fry until they are crisp. Be careful not to burn the leaves as it can happen very quickly. When they are done, remove the leaves and keep oil for drizzling.
8. Serve the risotto in bowls, drizzle with the sage oil, and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and vegan parmesan (if using).

Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and aromatic, earthy flavors of this plant-based indulgence that not only nourishes your body but also caters to the unique demands of gorgeous curly hair.