What To Serve With Butternut Squash Risotto
If you need ideas for what side dishes to serve with butternut squash risotto, you’ll be pleased to know that you’re in the right place!
Butternut squash risotto is a dish that’s fairly straightforward to prepare, and it’s proof that sometimes the simplest of ingredients can come together to create a really sophisticated and elegant dish.
By taking just a squash, an onion, risotto rice, a little white wine, and a handful of store cupboard ingredients, you can have a meal that’s suitable even for a dinner party, or just a midweek meal that you know your family will enjoy.
If you’re anything like me though, you’ll like to add a side dish or two to the table, to really bring everything together.
Let’s take a look at what to serve with butternut squash risotto…
1. Buttered peas with tarragon
Peas just work so well with a risotto, and make a wonderful side dish that doesn’t require too much effort!
Use frozen peas for convenience if you like, and cook according to packet instructions. Finish off by adding a knob of salted butter and some sprigs of fresh tarragon.
Of course, you can easily tweak this option depending on the fresh herbs that you might have available in the your kitchen. Mint also works really well, and if you like your food with a little bit of a kick, try adding some chopped red chilli.
2. Green salad
A tart green salad is a light but satisfying option for what to serve with butternut squash risotto.
Think rocket leaves, pomegranate seeds, green peppers, and your favourite citrus based dressing.
Putting the time and effort into creating a salad that’s way more than a few token bits and bobs from the back of your fridge can make a massive difference, and elevate your risotto from being a run of the mill meal that you make out of necessity, to something really special.
3. Salted popcorn
Hear me out on this one! You might be more accustomed to serving up popcorn as a quick and delicious snack when you’re having a film night, but it’s also commonly used amongst foodies to add a wow factor to a dish.
Garnishing your risotto with some freshly popped popcorn is a fabulous conversation starter at a dinner table, and adds an element of fun.
4. Portobello mushrooms
Portobello mushrooms have a rich and earthy flavour, and some people would even describe them as being slightly meaty in texture.
They’re a great addition to a vegetarian meal when you want to add a little more variety and keep things interesting and exciting.
I like to sauté my mushrooms with some good quality olive oil, garlic, and a splash of dry white wine. You can also add a sprinkling of your favourite fresh herbs to really bring them to life.
5. Roasted chicken
Dedicated meat eaters will really enjoy some roasted chicken alongside their risotto. This could also be a good option if you’re catering for both veggies and carnivores, as everyone can simply choose what works best for them.
I like to serve my roast chicken in the middle of the table, and give one of my guests the honour of carving it up!
Alternatively, you could shred your chicken in advance and stir it through your risotto.
6. Ossobuco
Ossobuco is a classic and retro veal recipe that’s commonly considered as being a delightful Italian alternative to a Sunday dinner.
It’s a great choice for what to serve with butternut squash risotto when you’re keen to include something meaty, and you want something that’s really rich and satisfying.
It takes several hours to prepare, but it’s fairly easy and can be attempted by beginner home cooks without too much hassle!
7. Sautéed kale
Sautéed kale with garlic and olive oil is simple to prepare, and adds some luscious greenery, as well as a whole host of essential vitamins and minerals to your meal.
The slight kick from the addition of red chilli flakes really makes this side dish into something special, so don’t be tempted to leave them out! Of course, you can tweak the amount you use if your family don’t like too much of a kick.
Alternatively, you can try my crispy kale recipe and use it as a garnish.
8. Grilled monkfish
Monkfish has a meaty texture, and a mild, sweet flavour without any taste of fishiness. This makes it popular amongst those who perhaps don’t particularly love seafood, but want to incorporate more fish into their diet.
Simply grill your monkfish, and serve alongside your creamy risotto. It’s a healthy, wholesome meal that is ideal for a dinner party.
As you can see, there are so many different ways to bring your risotto to life, and make it into a meal that will be remembered for all the right reasons.
If you want to save these side dish ideas for another day, you can pin the image below to your foodie Pinterest board!
