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Tasty Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe

Combining traditional flavours of Italian cooking with contemporary dietary needs, gluten-free butternut squash risotto offers a delicious approach to dining.

This comforting dish transforms butternut squash and rice into a creamy, satisfying meal that caters to those seeking gluten-free options without compromising on taste or texture.

Naturally gluten-free and inherently elegant, this risotto represents more than just a meal – it’s a testament to the art of inclusive cooking, where dietary restrictions melt away in the face of extraordinary taste.

The vibrant orange squash not only provides a stunning visual appeal but also delivers a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and a subtle sweetness that harmonises beautifully with the earthy, al dente rice.

Whether served as a comforting weeknight dinner or presented as a sophisticated starter at an intimate gathering, this gluten-free butternut squash risotto promises a culinary journey that is at once nourishing, indulgent, and utterly irresistible.

What you’ll love about this recipe

Nutritional Powerhouse

Butternut squash risotto is a nutritional treasure trove, packed with essential vitamins A and C that support overall health and boost the immune system. Each serving delivers a significant dose of fibre and vital minerals, transforming a simple meal into a comprehensive nutritional experience.

By combining nutrient-dense ingredients, this dish provides a balanced and wholesome approach to eating that nourishes the body while delighting the palate.

Dietary Inclusivity

This gluten-free risotto represents culinary inclusivity at its finest, offering a delicious solution for those with dietary restrictions. Naturally gluten-free and carefully prepared, the dish ensures that individuals with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivities can enjoy a classic Italian recipe without compromise.

It demonstrates that dietary needs need not limit gastronomic pleasure, proving that food can be both restrictive-diet friendly and incredibly tasty.

Incredible Flavor Profile

The risotto boasts a remarkable depth of flavour, combining the rich, creamy texture of arborio rice with the subtle sweetness of butternut squash. Each spoonful offers a complex taste experience, enhanced by carefully selected herbs and seasonings.

The slow cooking process allows ingredients to meld together, creating a sophisticated and comforting dish that feels both familiar and exciting.

Simple Yet Sophisticated

Despite its impressive appearance, butternut squash risotto is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a relatively simple cooking technique, home cooks can create a restaurant-quality meal that looks and tastes extraordinarily elegant.

It’s equally suitable for casual family dinners and sophisticated dinner parties, making it an incredibly versatile recipe.

Seasonal and Adaptable

Perfectly embodying autumn and winter comfort food, this risotto celebrates seasonal ingredients while remaining wonderfully adaptable. Cooks can easily customize the dish with different herbs, additional vegetables, or complementary proteins.

Whether served as a hearty main course or an accompaniment to other dishes, butternut squash risotto offers flexibility and consistent deliciousness.

Ingredients

• 1 Butternut squash (peeled, de-seeded, cubed and roasted)
• 200g (7oz) Italian arborio risotto rice
• 1 red onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 large red pepper (chopped)
• 1 red chilli (finely chopped)
• 1 small glass of white wine (optional)
• 500ml (1 pint) hot gluten-free vegetable stock
• 1 400g can of tomatoes
• Black pepper
• Butter
• Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions 

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (Gas Mark 6). Ensure the rack is in the middle position for even cooking.
• Prepare the vegetables: Peel and deseed the butternut squash, then cut it into 1-inch cubes.
  Chop the red pepper into similar-sized pieces. Peel the garlic cloves but leave them whole.
  Finely chop the red chilli, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
• Place the prepared vegetables on a large baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized. Stir once halfway through cooking.
• In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, melt a knob of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
• Add the arborio rice to the pan with the onions. Stir to coat each grain with butter, allowing the rice to toast slightly for 1-2 minutes.
• If using, pour in a small glass of white wine. Stir constantly until the wine is fully absorbed by the rice.
• Begin adding the hot vegetable stock, one ladle at a time. Stir continuously, waiting for each ladle of stock to be almost fully absorbed before adding the next. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.
• When the rice is nearly cooked (it should be al dente – tender but with a slight bite), gently fold in the roasted vegetables, including any juices from the roasting pan.
• Add the canned tomatoes, stirring gently to combine. If desired, add extra chopped chilli for more heat.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the risotto has a creamy consistency.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
•  Serve immediately in warm bowls. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and an extra grind of black pepper if desired.

Remember to stir gently after adding the roasted vegetables to avoid breaking them up too much. The goal is to have distinct pieces of butternut squash and pepper throughout the creamy risotto.

What to serve with gluten-free butternut squash risotto

Side Dishes
Complement your butternut squash risotto with vibrant side dishes that enhance its creamy texture. Sautéed spinach offers a light, nutritious accompaniment, while roasted Brussels sprouts provide a caramelized crunch. For meat lovers, crispy prosciutto adds a salty dimension, and a shaved Brussels sprouts salad brings fresh, crisp elements to the plate. Sautéed kale or broccoli rabe can introduce a slightly bitter contrast to the risotto’s richness.

Salad Options
Balance the risotto’s creamy profile with a bright, acidic salad. A tart green salad featuring peppery arugula cuts through the dish’s richness. A pear salad introduces subtle sweetness, while a salad adorned with pomegranate seeds and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing and tangy counterpoint to the warm, comforting risotto.

Protein Pairings
For those seeking additional protein, several options beautifully complement the butternut squash risotto. Sous vide pork tenderloin offers tender, juicy meat, while roast or easy roasted chicken provides a classic pairing. Chopped cooked chicken or sausage can be mixed directly into the risotto, and leftover turkey makes for an excellent, economical addition.

Vegetarian Additions
Vegetarian diners can enhance the risotto with hearty plant-based options. Roasted portobello mushrooms bring a meaty texture and umami flavour. Roasted asparagus adds a spring-like freshness, and instant pot artichokes introduce a Mediterranean touch to the meal.

Wine Pairings
Select a wine that complements the risotto’s creamy, slightly sweet profile. Chardonnay offers buttery notes that match the dish’s richness. Celebratory wines like Champagne, Cava, or Prosecco bring effervescence and cut through the creaminess. A crisp Pinot Gris can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the risotto’s intensity.

Pro Tip: Serve the risotto immediately while it’s hot and creamy, and consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or sage to add a final layer of flavour and visual appeal.

Gluten-free Butternut Squash Risotto recipe

Are you ready to try my gluten-free butternut squash risotto recipe? Then, let’s get started:

If you enjoy my gluten-free butternut squash recipe, then check out more of my recipes 👇

• Gluten-free fish risotto
• Gluten-free vegetable chilli
• Gluten-free salsa

Gluten-free Butternut Squash Risotto tips

Here are some tips to help you make the most out of this recipe:

Ingredient Selection
Choose high-quality arborio rice, which is naturally gluten-free and essential for achieving the classic creamy risotto texture. Ensure all broth and stock cubes are certified gluten-free to prevent cross-contamination.

Preparation Techniques
Roast the butternut squash beforehand to intensify its natural sweetness and develop deeper flavours.
Warm your stock/broth before adding to the rice to maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
Use a heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven for even heat distribution.

Cooking Method
Stir constantly during the risotto-making process to release the rice’s starches and create a creamy consistency
Add liquid gradually, allowing each addition to be almost fully absorbed before adding more
Toast the rice in butter or olive oil for 1-2 minutes before adding liquid to enhance the flavour.

Flavor Enhancements
Use white wine to add depth and complexity to the dish and finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Season with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, add a knob of butter at the end for extra richness.

Pro Tips
Use fresh Parmesan and grate it yourself for the best flavour and serve immediately for optimal texture.
Leftovers can be transformed into arancini (risotto balls)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of rice for risotto?
While arborio rice is the most commonly used for risotto due to its high starch content, you can also use other short-grain varieties like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano. These alternatives will yield a similar creamy texture.

Is it necessary to use wine in the recipe?
Wine adds depth and complexity to the flavour of the risotto, but it is not essential. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute with additional broth or use a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.

How do I achieve the perfect creamy texture?
The key to a creamy risotto is to add hot broth gradually and stir regularly. This process releases the starches from the rice, creating a smooth and creamy consistency. Avoid adding too much liquid at once, as this can prevent the rice from cooking evenly.

Can I make this risotto ahead of time?
Risotto is best served fresh, as it can become thick and lose its creamy texture when reheated. However, you can prepare the roasted butternut squash and cook the rice separately, then combine them just before serving.

How should I store leftovers?
If you have leftover risotto, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and restore its creamy texture.

What can I add to enhance the flavour?
You can add various ingredients to enhance your risotto, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or herbs like thyme or sage. For added richness, consider stirring in some cream or additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make a vegan version of butternut squash risotto, substitute butter with olive oil and use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Ensure that your vegetable broth is also vegan-friendly.

Can I freeze butternut squash risotto?
While it is possible to freeze risotto, it may lose some texture upon thawing and reheating. If you choose to freeze it, store it in an airtight container and consume it within one month for the best quality.

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  Marion Nicholas replied on January 25, 2025:

  
  Love this dish. Very easy to follow recipe. Can be made ahead. Ready to eat when ever you want. Delicious.

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