Curried Butternut Squash And Brown Rice Skillet

Today, I am excited to share with you some delicious recipes featuring one of my favorite fall ingredients: butternut squash! This versatile vegetable pairs perfectly with brown rice, creating a comforting and nutritious meal that your whole family will love.

Creamy butternut squash brown rice

This creamy butternut squash brown rice recipe from Family Food on the Table is a true winner. The combination of silky butternut squash and nutty brown rice creates a velvety texture that will melt in your mouth. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal or can be enjoyed on its own as a comforting vegetarian option.

Ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced butternut squash, diced onion, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
3. Spread the butternut squash mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender and golden brown.
4. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the brown rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
5. Once the butternut squash is done roasting, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add the cooked brown rice and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

This creamy butternut squash brown rice pilaf from Eat Good 4 Life adds another layer of depth to this already delicious dish. The addition of Brussels sprouts brings a slight bitterness that complements the sweetness of the butternut squash perfectly. You’ll love the colorful presentation and the flavor explosion in every bite!

Brown rice butternut squash Brussels sprouts pilaf

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the brown rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the diced butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Once the brown rice is cooked, add it to the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and nutritious pilaf!

These two recipes showcase different ways to enjoy the combination of butternut squash and brown rice. Whether you prefer a creamy and smooth texture or a pilaf with a bit more bite, these dishes will satisfy your cravings for fall flavors and nourishing ingredients.

Not only are these recipes delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, while brown rice offers fiber and complex carbohydrates that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized. Plus, both recipes are vegetarian-friendly, making them a great addition to your meatless Monday meal plan.

Preparation time for each recipe may vary, but you can expect to spend around 30-40 minutes on the butternut squash preparation and roasting. Once the vegetable is cooked, the rest of the recipe comes together quickly.

Servings for each recipe will depend on the portion size you prefer, but on average, you can expect to get around 4 servings out of each recipe. If you’re cooking for a smaller family, feel free to halve the ingredients or save the leftovers for a delicious lunch the next day.

Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the flavors and seasons in each dish. The creamy butternut squash brown rice is the epitome of comfort and warmth, while the Brussels sprouts pilaf adds a touch of earthiness and freshness. No matter which recipe you choose, your taste buds will thank you!

As for nutrition facts, each recipe is tailored to provide a balanced and wholesome meal. The exact nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and the portion sizes you serve. However, both recipes are abundant in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making them a great addition to a well-rounded diet.

If you’re new to cooking with butternut squash and brown rice, don’t worry! I have a few tips to help you navigate these recipes with ease:

• When choosing a butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a firm exterior. This ensures that the squash is fresh and ripe.
• To make peeling and cutting the butternut squash easier, you can microwave it for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin slightly.
• If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut butternut squash from the produce section of your local grocery store.
• Feel free to customize these recipes by adding your favorite herbs and spices. Sage, rosemary, and cinnamon are all wonderful options that pair well with butternut squash and brown rice.

I hope you enjoy these delicious butternut squash and brown rice recipes as much as I do. They are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall and nourish your body with wholesome ingredients. Give them a try and let your taste buds thank you!