Risotto with Butternut Squash, Leeks, and Basil

Ingredients for Risotto with Butternut Squash, Leeks, and Basil

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 950ml 1/2-inch cubes peeled butternut squash (from 2.4kg squash)

• 725ml 1/2-inch-wide slices leeks (white and pale green parts only)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

• 375g arborio rice

• 4 400g cans (or more) vegetable broth

• 1 cup chopped fresh basil

• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus additional (for serving)

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add squash and sauté until beginning to soften and brown around edges, about 5 minutes. Transfer squash to medium bowl.

Reduce heat to medium; add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, leeks, and thyme to same pot and stir until tender but not brown, about 5 minutes. Add rice and stir 1 minute. Add 240ml broth and simmer until absorbed, stirring frequently, 3 to 4 minutes. Add remaining broth by 120ml fuls, allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding next, stirring often, about 15 minutes. Return squash to pot. Continue to cook until rice is just tender but still very creamy, stirring gently and often, about 10 minutes longer (about 25 minutes total cooking time). Remove from heat. Stir in basil and 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer to large bowl and serve with additional Parmesan cheese.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.