THE BLOSSOM BITE
About the Recipe
This Pumpkin & Almond Risotto brings all the warmth and sweetness of autumn right to your plate, combining flavors in a way that’s both comforting and unique. The soft, naturally sweet pumpkin pairs perfectly with the creamy almond butter, creating a 100% plant-based dish that’s rich and full of flavor. This risotto is ideal for anyone looking for a twist on the classic pumpkin risotto, staying true to the simplicity of wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a cozy night in or to impress at a special dinner!
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups Carnaroli rice
1 1/4 lbs pumpkin (peeled and diced)
1 small onion
4 cups hot vegetable broth
2 tbsp almond butter
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Preparation
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the pumpkin cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme. Roast for about 20 minutes, until the pumpkin is soft and slightly golden.
Step 2
Set aside a handful of pumpkin cubes, and blend the rest into a smooth puree.
Step 3
Prepare your vegetable broth and keep it warm.In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it turns soft and translucent.
Step 5
Add the rice to the pot, stirring to lightly toast it for a couple of minutes. Start adding a ladle of hot broth, stirring as the rice absorbs it. Keep adding broth gradually and stirring for about 18 minutes.
Step 6
Near the end of cooking, stir in the pumpkin puree. Then, add the reserved pumpkin cubes for some tasty texture.
Step 7
Once the risotto is done, turn off the heat and stir in the almond butter until everything is creamy and perfectly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Why I Love This Dish
This risotto came from my little experiment to bring a fresh twist to a classic autumn dish. Roasting the pumpkin with herbs brings out so much natural sweetness, and the almond butter takes the creaminess to a whole new level without feeling heavy. I love this dish because every bite is like a cozy, comforting hug—the perfect thing for chilly evenings!