What To Serve With Butternut Squash Risotto (18+ Sides)
Butternut squash risotto is a delicious and hearty dish. It can be a little bit difficult to determine what side dishes will go well with it, though. That’s why I’m here to help! In this article, we will explain what recipes work best as their side dish.
So whether you’re planning on making butternut squash risotto tonight or shortly, you’ll know exactly what to serve with it!
What To Serve With Butternut Squash Risotto
- Cauliflower Salad
- Grilled Fish Fillet
- Roasted Corn Salad
- Walnut Brussels Sprouts
- Pea And Mint Soup
- Caprese Salad
- Seared Scallops
- Sauteed Spinach
- Grilled Monkfish
- Sauteed Kale
Cauliflower Salad
Cauliflower salad is a great side dish for butternut squash risotto. The creamy texture of the risotto pairs well with the crispy, crunchy salad. The acidity of the lemon juice and vinegar brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
And, the healthy fats in the olive oil help to balance out the heaviness of the risotto. Plus, the nutty flavor of the Parmesan cheese complements the earthiness of the squash.
Grilled Fish Fillet
A grilled fish fillet is the perfect side dish for butternut squash risotto. The delicate flavor of the fish pairs well with the creamy risotto, and the crispy skin adds a nice contrast in texture. Plus, the healthy Omega-3 fatty acids in the fish help to balance out the richness of the dish.
If you’re looking for a light and healthy alternative to traditional starchy sides like mashed potatoes or bread, a grilled fish fillet is a great option. You can use any type of firm whitefish for this recipe, such as halibut, cod, or sea bass.
Just be sure to season the fish generously with salt and pepper before grilling. For an extra touch of flavor, you can also brush the fillets with a little olive oil or lemon juice before cooking.
Roasted Corn Salad
There are many cases in which roasted corn salad would make an excellent side dish for butternut squash risotto. For one, the sweetness of the corn pairs well with the rich flavors of the risotto.
Additionally, the crispy texture of the roasted corn provides a nice contrast to the creamy risotto. Finally, the colorful presentation of the dish is sure to impress your guests.
When it comes to benefits, roasted corn salad is a healthy and affordable option. The dish is packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium.
Furthermore, it is simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time. In short, roasted corn salad is a great choice if you are looking for a healthy and delicious side dish.
Many recipes would pair well with roasted corn salad. For example, try serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. You could also add it to a summertime pasta dish or use it as a topping for pizza.
Walnut Brussels Sprouts
In the case of butternut squash risotto, I believe that walnut Brussels sprouts are the perfect complement. Here’s why:
- First, the sweetness of the butternut squash pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
- Second, the creamy texture of the risotto is a perfect contrast to the crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts.
- Third, the nutritional benefits of both dishes complement each other perfectly – the butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, while the Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of fiber.
- Fourth, and perhaps most importantly, both dishes are incredibly delicious! When paired together, they create a dish that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Pea And Mint Soup
Pea and mint soup is a light and refreshing side dish that pairs well with rich and creamy dishes like butternut squash risotto. The sweetness of the peas complements the earthy flavors of the squash, and the mint adds a bright note that helps to balance out the dish.
Pea and mint soup can also be used as a standalone appetizer or first course. It is an especially good choice for springtime menus when both peas and mint are in season.
To make pea and mint soup, simply combine cooked peas, fresh mint leaves, chicken or vegetable stock, and a bit of cream or milk in a blender or food processor. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then purée until smooth. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Caprese Salad
When thinking about what side dish to serve with butternut squash risotto, consider a Caprese salad. It is a simple salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, seasoned with olive oil and salt. This salad is a great way to add a burst of flavor to the risotto without overpowering it.
The acidity of the tomatoes helps to balance the richness of the dish, and the mozzarella adds a creamy contrast to the creamy risotto. On the other hand, the basil provides a bright pop of color and freshness that ties everything together.
Seared Scallops
Seared scallops are an excellent side dish for butternut squash risotto. They add a touch of elegance to the dish while still being relatively simple to prepare.
Scallops are also a highly versatile ingredient and can be used in a variety of recipes. For example, they can be served with a light salad for a simple yet elegant entrée. Or, they can be added to pasta dishes or soups for an extra boost of flavor.
When choosing scallops for this dish, it is important to select ones that are fresh and of good quality. The best scallops are firm and have a slightly sweet flavor. If you cannot find fresh scallops, you can use frozen ones that have been thawed overnight in the refrigerator.
When searing the scallops, it is important to use a hot pan so that they develop a nice golden crust. Once they are cooked through, remove them from the pan and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. Then, simply add them to your butternut squash risotto just before serving.
Sauteed Spinach
Sauteed spinach is a versatile and healthy side dish that goes well with a variety of main dishes. Here are some reasons why you should consider using sauteed spinach as a side dish for butternut squash risotto:
The Benefits of Sauteed Spinach:
- Sauteed spinach is packed with nutrients. Dark, leafy greens like spinach are loaded with vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and magnesium. Just one cup of sauteed spinach contains over 100% of the daily recommended value of Vitamin A!
- Sauteed spinach is low in calories. If you’re watching your waistline, sauteed spinach is a great choice as a side dish.
- Sauteed spinach is quick and easy to make. This healthy side dish can be on your dinner table in less than 15 minutes!
- Sauteed spinach is versatile. Whether you’re making Italian-style risotto or Indian-spiced dal, sauteed spinach makes a delicious and healthy addition to any dish.
- Sauteed spinach is a great way to get kids (and adults!) to eat their greens. If you have picky eaters in your family, try serving sauteed spinach as a side dish. The mild flavor and soft texture of cooked spinach are usually a hit with kids.
Grilled Monkfish
Grilled monkfish is an excellent side dish for butternut squash risotto. The rich, creamy flavors of the risotto are complemented perfectly by the lightly grilled monkfish. The monkfish also adds a nice contrast in texture, with its crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior.
When pairing grilled monkfish with butternut squash risotto, you may want to consider adding a few other ingredients to round out the flavors. Some good options include freshly grated Parmesan cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or even a light salad.
Sauteed Kale
Sauteed kale is a delicious and healthy side dish that goes great with butternut squash risotto.
Kale is packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and manganese. It’s also a good source of fiber and calcium. Sauteing kale helps to soften the tough leaves and bring out its flavors.
When paired with butternut squash risotto, the kale adds a lovely pop of color and a bit of bitterness to contrast with the sweetness of the squash. The risotto also helps to round out the meal with its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are other options when choosing what to serve with butternut squash risotto?
- Ossobuco
- Roasted Chicken
- Portobello Mushrooms
- Salted Popcorn
- Green Salad
- Buttered Peas With Tarragon
- Glazed Pork Loin
- Instant Pot Artichoke
- Sous Vide Asparagus
- Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin
What are some tips when choosing what to serve with butternut squash risotto?
When choosing what to serve with butternut squash risotto, it is important to consider the flavors of the dish. Butternut squash risotto is a sweet and creamy dish, so you will want to choose side dishes that will complement these flavors.
Additionally, you’ll want to consider the texture of the risotto. If you are looking for a bit of contrast, choose side dishes with a crunchy or crispy texture.
Finally, keep in mind that butternut squash risotto is a hearty dish, so you’ll want to choose side dishes that are not too heavy.
Conclusion
When it comes to what to serve with butternut squash risotto, the options are endless! You can pair this creamy dish with a variety of main courses, from grilled fish to roasted chicken.
You can also choose from a variety of healthy side dishes, such as sauteed kale or grilled monkfish. No matter what you choose, your guests are sure to enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!
What To Serve With Butternut Squash Risotto (18+ Sides)
Ingredients
- Cauliflower Salad
- Grilled Fish Fillet
- Roasted Corn Salad
- Walnut Brussels Sprouts
- Pea And Mint Soup
- Caprese Salad
- Seared Scallops
- Sauteed Spinach
- Grilled Monkfish
- Sauteed Kale
Instructions
- Choose your preferred recipe
- Prepare the ingredients needed to complete the recipe
- Prepare your side dish