I love butternut squash risotto but it is not exactly the most healthy comfort food recipe. I made this last week but was unable to upload the pictures since my cord was en route from Chicago. Using a few simple swaps, I was able to lighten up this fall staple with ease and even made it more affordable.
Cheesy Butternut Squash Quinoa
- Serves: 2
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 35
Ingredients:
- 3 cups of Butternut squash, peeled & cubed
- 1/4 cup of Quinoa
- 1 cup of Low Sodium Chicken Broth (you can use water if you want)
- 1/2 cup Onion, chopped (I love vidalia)
- 1 cup of Baby Spinach
- 2 Laughing Cow Light Swiss Wedges
- 1 teaspoon Sage, chopped
- Handful of Walnuts (Optional)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400F. Place squash on a cookie sheet and roast in oven for 25-30 minutes. Spray with olive oil can and sprinkle with salt and pepper. I added all spice but it’s not necessary. Preheat a medium sized pot on medium and spray with olive oil. Add onion and saute for 5 minute on medium-low or until it is soft. Rinse off quinoa under cold running water. Add quinoa and chicken broth to pot. Cover and bring to a boil. Once it is boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Once all broth is evaporated reduce heat as low as possible. Add in Laughing Cow Wedges and blending well. Next add in in the baby spinach and sage. When squash is soft and done, take out of the oven and add it into the pot, smooshing some but not all the cubes. If the pot is too small you can transfer to a large bowl. Mix under the squash is half mashed and half chunky. Sprinkle with walnuts. Enjoy!
By using quinoa, you add protein making this meal a complete protein. The Laughing Cow Wedges make the meal seem high calorie but at 35 calories each, clearly is not going to break the bank for the week! If you do not have sage, you can try adding rosemary and/or thyme. What is your favorite fall comfort food recipe you want me to lighten up next?
Note: I am a Laughing Cow Community Leader. To learn more about my role, you can read this post. I find that everyone I share this with has the same response, “I love The Laughing Cow.” I agree, which is why I embrace this position!
