Pumpkin and basil risotto
Indulge in the creamy and savory flavors of this Pumpkin and Basil Risotto recipe! Made with tender pumpkin, aromatic basil, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners. Enhanced with a splash of white wine and the richness of chicken gravy, it's an irresistible Italian-inspired meal that's easy to prepare and utterly delicious.
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 25 min
Ingredients:
8 cups pumpkin2 tbsp olive oil
3 cups chicken gravy
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 cup white rice
3/4 cup white wine
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup basil leaves
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
Pumpkin and basil risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the creamy texture of Arborio rice with the rich taste of pumpkin and the fragrant aroma of fresh basil. This dish is perfect for fall when pumpkins are in season, but can be enjoyed year-round as a cozy and satisfying meal.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the cubed pumpkin evenly on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle 1 tbsp of olive oil over the pumpkin and toss to coat.
- Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from oven and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, warm the chicken gravy over medium heat. Keep it warm on low heat as you prepare the risotto.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Cook the Rice:
- Add the white rice to the pan, stirring to coat the grains in the oil and onion mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the rice is somewhat translucent around the edges.
5. Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring frequently, until the wine is fully absorbed by the rice.
- Begin adding the warm chicken gravy one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently.
- Wait until each addition is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladleful of gravy.
- Continue adding gravy and stirring until the rice is creamy and cooked to al dente. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.
- Gently fold the roasted pumpkin cubes into the risotto, being careful not to mash them too much.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the risotto.
- Add the chopped basil leaves and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (salt, pepper).
- Serve the risotto hot, topped with diced mozzarella cheese to add a creamy, melty texture. Garnish with additional basil leaves if desired.
Tips:
- Use fresh pumpkin for the best flavor, but canned pumpkin puree can be a convenient alternative.
- Arborio rice is ideal for risotto due to its high starch content, which provides a creamy texture.
- Stirring continuously helps release the starches from the rice, creating a creamy consistency.
- Add the broth gradually, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid slowly for even cooking.
- Taste the risotto before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken gravy or broth.
This pumpkin and basil risotto is a delightful combination of creamy rice, sweet pumpkin, and fresh basil. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress your family and guests. Enjoy this cozy and delicious risotto with a glass of your favorite white wine.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 500kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 80g
Fiber 2.93g
Sugar 10g
Fat 18g
More recipes
Keto shrimp and peppers
Enjoy a nutritious meal packed with protein and essential nutrients while keeping your carbs in check.
31 May 2025Penne with garlic mushroom parmesan
Perfect for a quick, delicious meal that's sure to impress.
05 Mar 2025Broccoli chicken zucchini boats with cheddar cheese
Ready in no time, it’s a great way to enjoy a balanced meal that's both satisfying and nutritious.
19 Mar 2025Eggplant flatbread with mozzarella, goat cheese and basil
This delicious recipe combines crispy baguette slices with hearty eggplant and tangy pasta sauce for a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion.
10 Apr 2025Stuffed chicken burrs
Perfect for a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfies every craving.
04 Sep 2025Salmon spaghetti
This delicious pasta dish pairs perfectly cooked salmon with a tangy mustard and dill sauce for a vibrant, satisfying dinner that’s ready to impress.
24 Mar 2025