If you're looking for a filling and nutritious meal, one tray (326 g) of Butternut Squash Risotto may just do the trick. This scrumptious dish contains 490 calories that are sure to keep your stomach full and your taste buds satisfied. But what exactly goes into this dish? Let's take a closer look.

Apart from its calorie count, one serving of Butternut Squash Risotto also provides you with 19 grams of protein, 67 grams of carbohydrates, and 16 grams of fat. It's also high in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. All of these nutrients combined make for a truly healthy meal.

Butternut Squash Risotto may seem daunting to prepare at first, but it's actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. Plus, the recipe is pretty flexible, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Read on to learn more about this dish!

Calories in Butternut Squash Risotto

As previously mentioned, one tray (326 g) of Butternut Squash Risotto contains 490 calories. However, if you're watching your calorie intake, you can adjust the recipe accordingly. For instance, you can use less butter or cheese, which will reduce the calorie count.

Butternut Squash Risotto Ingredients

To make Butternut Squash Risotto, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into small cubes
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups of vegetable broth, heated
• 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp of unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

How to Prepare Butternut Squash Risotto

To prepare Butternut Squash Risotto, follow these steps:

1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
2. Add the butternut squash cubes and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Add the Arborio rice and stir to combine. Keep stirring for 1-2 minutes until the rice becomes translucent.
4. Gradually add the heated vegetable broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly. Wait for each ladleful to be absorbed before adding the next ladleful. Repeat until all the broth has been added and the rice is cooked through.
5. Add the parmesan cheese, unsalted butter, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Keep stirring until the cheese and butter are melted and the risotto is creamy.
6. Remove from heat and let the risotto rest for 1-2 minutes.
7. Top with fresh parsley or basil (optional) and serve hot.

Health Benefits of Butternut Squash Risotto

Butternut Squash Risotto is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that are good for your health. For instance:

• Butternut squash is a good source of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
• Risotto made with Arborio rice can provide you with complex carbohydrates, which are good for sustained energy.
• Parmesan cheese contains protein and calcium, which are essential for bone health.
• Unsalted butter is a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D.

Butternut Squash Risotto Serving Size

One tray (326 g) of Butternut Squash Risotto is typically served as a single serving. However, you can easily adjust the recipe to serve more or fewer people.

How Many Calories in one serving of Butternut Squash Risotto?

One serving of Butternut Squash Risotto (326 g) contains 490 calories. This calorie count may vary depending on the specific recipe and serving size.

Butternut Squash Risotto vs Regular Risotto

Regular Risotto is typically made with Arborio rice, chicken or vegetable broth, parmesan cheese, and butter. The recipe is pretty similar to that of Butternut Squash Risotto, except that the latter also contains butternut squash cubes, onion, and garlic. In terms of nutrition, Butternut Squash Risotto is generally healthier due to the addition of butternut squash, which provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, regular Risotto can also be nutritious if made with wholesome ingredients and served in moderation.

Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe Variations

The following are some variations of Butternut Squash Risotto:

• Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the risotto to increase protein intake.
• Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or gorgonzola, for a more intense flavor.
• Replace the Arborio rice with barley, quinoa, or farro for a more nutrient-dense option.
• Add a splash of white wine to the risotto for added flavor.

Butternut Squash Risotto with Chicken or Shrimp

If you want to add more protein to your Butternut Squash Risotto, you can do so by adding cooked chicken or shrimp to the recipe. Simply cook the chicken or shrimp separately and add it to the risotto after it's cooked.

Butternut Squash Risotto as a Side Dish

Butternut Squash Risotto can be served as a main dish or as a side dish to a protein of your choice, such as chicken, fish, or tofu. To make it into a side dish, simply reduce the portion size and serve it alongside your favorite protein.