To make the risotto, start by prepping your ingredients. Cut a small pumpkin into small cubes, and dice a zucchini into small pieces. Place the pumpkin on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until tender. In a large pot, heat up 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth and keep it warm on medium heat. In a separate pot or deep pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil and add a diced onion. Sauté the onion until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes.
Next, add 1 1/2 cups of Arborio rice to the pot. Stir the rice so that it’s coated in the oil and onion mixture. Add 1/2 cup of white wine and continue stirring until the wine is absorbed. Begin adding the warm broth one cup at a time, stirring constantly and waiting until the rice has absorbed each cup before adding more. This should take about 20-30 minutes, and the rice should be al dente, or firm to the bite.
Once the rice is cooked, add the roasted pumpkin and zucchini to the pot. Next, add the crumbled gorgonzola cheese, stirring until it’s melted and well combined. Add a handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which will add another layer of flavor to the dish. Finally, season the risotto with salt and pepper to taste.
The result is a rich and creamy risotto that’s bursting with flavor. The sweetness of the roasted pumpkin contrasts beautifully with the tangy gorgonzola cheese, and the zucchini adds a fresh crunch. The dish is perfect on its own or served as a side dish with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
Another great thing about this dish is that it’s easy to modify based on your preferences. If you’re not a fan of gorgonzola cheese, you could use Parmesan or another type of cheese. If you want to make it heartier, you could add cooked sausage or bacon. You could even try using different types of squash, such as butternut or acorn squash, to give the dish a different flavor profile.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for fall or winter, look no further than pumpkin, zucchini, and gorgonzola risotto. With a little bit of patience and some fresh ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Bon appétit!