Butternut Squash Casserole: A Comforting Delight
Butternut squash, with its vibrant orange hue and naturally sweet flavor, is a versatile ingredient that shines in a variety of dishes. One such dish that captures the essence of fall comfort food is Butternut Squash Casserole. This heartwarming casserole combines the earthy richness of butternut squash with an array of complementary ingredients to create a satisfying and nutritious meal. In this 500-word article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide to crafting this delectable Butternut Squash Casserole.
Ingredients:
To start your culinary journey towards this mouthwatering casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup of fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, take the peeled, seeded, and cubed butternut squash and place it in a large pot of boiling water. Let it cook for approximately 10 minutes or until the squash pieces become tender. Drain them and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become translucent and aromatic, which usually takes around 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers and Spinach
To the sautéed onions and garlic, introduce the chopped red and green bell peppers. Continue to sauté this vibrant medley for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers start to soften. Incorporate the chopped fresh spinach and stir it in briefly until it wilts, adding both color and nutrients to your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Now, it’s time to assemble your butternut squash casserole. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked butternut squash, sautéed vegetables, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. This delightful mixture is the heart of your casserole.
Step 5: Prepare the Custard
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, beaten eggs, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. This creamy custard mixture will bind all the ingredients together, giving your casserole a luscious texture and savory flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased casserole dish. Pour the creamy custard evenly over the top. Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and bubbly. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is a delightful preview of the deliciousness to come.
Enjoying the Butternut Squash Casserole:
Once your Butternut Squash Casserole is out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly before serving. The moment you take your first bite, you’ll experience the comforting embrace of butternut squash, the savory notes of cheeses and herbs, and the satisfying crunch of breadcrumbs. This casserole is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or a delightful addition to your holiday table.
In conclusion, Butternut Squash Casserole is a testament to the beauty of seasonal ingredients and their ability to create heartwarming dishes. This recipe showcases the natural sweetness and versatility of butternut squash, making it a beloved favorite for many. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to the comforting delight of Butternut Squash Casserole.
Source: thecozyapron.com
Pesto Chicken Saltimbocca with Burst Tomatoes and Burrata
Pesto Chicken Saltimbocca with Burst Tomatoes and Burrata is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe combines the traditional elements of saltimbocca with the fresh, vibrant flavors of pesto, juicy burst tomatoes, and the creamy goodness of burrata cheese. It’s a dish that promises to impress and satisfy with its rich combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken cutlets
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 8 thin slices of prosciutto
- 1 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs
- 2/3 cup grated parmesan
- 2 balls (8 ounces) burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- basil, for serving
- TOMATOES:
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for cooking
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 6 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- zest of 1 lemon
- chili flakes
- kosher salt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey
Instructions
1. In a bowl, toss together the chicken and pesto, coating the chicken fully in pesto. Combine the Panko and parmesan in a separate shallow bowl.
2. Working with 1 cutlet at a time, press 2 basil leaves on top of each cutlet. Wrap 2 pieces of prosciutto around each cutlet to secure the basil. The oils from the pesto should moisten the prosciutto, if not drizzle lightly with olive oil. Dredge through the Panko, pressing to adhere. Place the chicken on a plate.
3. To make the tomatoes. In a large skillet, over high heat, combine the olive oil, 2 cups tomatoes, shallots, garlic, thyme, lemon zest, and a pinch each of chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes burst about, 10 minutes. Turn the heat off. Halve the remaining tomatoes and stir them in with the vinegar and honey.
4. Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken and cook until golden brown, 3-4 minutes. Cook until golden brown, 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and season with salt.
5. Serve the chicken warm topped with torn burrata, tomatoes, and fresh basil.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 617