Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto is a delightful dish that combines creamy risotto with the earthy flavors of pumpkin and the aromatic touch of sage. Picture yourself savoring each bite, as the rich textures blend harmoniously, transporting you to a cozy autumn evening.

When I first tried making this risotto, I was convinced that I could conjure up culinary magic in my kitchen. Spoiler alert: I didn’t burn down my house! Instead, I discovered a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends during festive gatherings. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The preparation is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
- The flavor profile combines sweetness from the pumpkin with savory sage, creating a delicious balance.
- Its beautiful golden hue will brighten any dinner table and make your guests swoon.
- Plus, you can easily modify it to cater to various dietary preferences or use up leftover ingredients.
Ingredients for Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Arborio Rice: This short-grain rice is essential for achieving that creamy risotto texture—don’t skimp on it!
- Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or homemade puree; it adds a rich flavor and vibrant color.
- Fresh Sage: Choose bright green leaves for the best aroma and taste; they elevate the dish significantly.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds a sweet base flavor to your risotto.
- Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought works too—just opt for low-sodium if possible.
- Parmesan Cheese: For that final touch of creaminess and depth of flavor; freshly grated is best!
- Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil enhances the dish’s richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onion finely and set aside your sage leaves. If using fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender before puréeing it into silky goodness.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm about two tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant—about five minutes should do it. Feel free to dance around while waiting; nobody’s watching!
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Stir in one cup of Arborio rice and cook for about two minutes until the grains are slightly translucent around the edges. This step is crucial—it develops that nutty flavor we all adore in risotto.
Step 4: Add Broth Gradually
Pour in about half a cup of vegetable broth at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb all that deliciousness before adding more broth—this usually takes around twenty minutes total.
Step 5: Stir in Pumpkin and Sage
Once your rice is perfectly al dente (you know, firm but not crunchy), stir in one cup of pumpkin puree and about ten sage leaves chopped finely. Mix until everything is well combined; you’ll notice how lovely the colors blend together.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Remove from heat and fold in half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until creamy. Serve immediately while it’s warm—each spoonful will be like a hug in food form!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra olive oil or garnish with whole sage leaves for that Instagram-worthy presentation.
With its comforting flavors and simple preparation steps, Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto can charm even the most discerning palates during chilly evenings or festive occasions! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delightful Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto is more than just a cozy dish; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- The creamy texture and aromatic blend make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until fragrant, then add the Arborio rice, ensuring each grain gets coated. Gradually stir in warm broth while mixing in pumpkin purée and fresh sage for a rich flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pumpkin for butternut squash if you desire a different taste. You can also sprinkle some crispy bacon or toasted nuts on top for added crunch and flavor!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use homemade or quality store-bought broth; it makes all the difference.
- Stirring frequently prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Always let risotto rest briefly after cooking to enhance its creaminess.
Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about the first time I made this Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto for my friends—let’s just say they were happily licking their plates clean!
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto?
To make Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto, you will need Arborio rice, fresh pumpkin, sage leaves, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. The combination of these ingredients creates a creamy and flavorful dish that highlights the earthy taste of pumpkin and the aromatic essence of sage. You can also add white wine for an extra depth of flavor if desired.
How long does it take to prepare Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto?
Preparing Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes chopping the pumpkin and onion, sautéing the vegetables, and gradually adding the broth to the rice. The risotto requires constant stirring for a creamy texture. While it may seem time-consuming, the process allows you to enjoy a rich and satisfying meal without rushing.
Can I make Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto to be vegan. Simply replace the butter with olive oil or vegan margarine and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, ensure that your vegetable broth is free from any animal products. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors without compromising on dietary preferences.
What can I serve with Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto?
Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrients. Grilled chicken or fish also complements this hearty risotto beautifully if you’re looking for protein options. This flexibility makes it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion.
Conclusion for Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto
In conclusion, Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto is a delightful dish that showcases seasonal flavors beautifully. With its creamy texture and aromatic notes from sage, this recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Remember to use high-quality ingredients like Arborio rice and fresh pumpkin to enhance the overall taste. Whether you’re preparing it as a main course or a side dish, this risotto will surely impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy every spoonful!
Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto
Savoury Pumpkin & Sage Risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that beautifully unites the rich flavors of pumpkin with the aromatic touch of fresh sage. This delightful risotto, with its vibrant golden hue, is perfect for cozy autumn evenings or festive gatherings. With simple preparation steps and readily available ingredients, you can impress family and friends alike. Each bite offers warmth and satisfaction, making this recipe a must-try for any culinary enthusiast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 10 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Finely chop the onion and sage leaves. If using fresh pumpkin, roast until tender and purée.
- Sauté onion: In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Toast rice: Stir in Arborio rice and cook for about 2 minutes until edges are slightly translucent.
- Gradually add broth: Pour in vegetable broth half a cup at a time, stirring frequently until absorbed (about 20 minutes total).
- Mix in pumpkin and sage: Once rice is al dente, add pumpkin puree and chopped sage; mix well.
- Finish with cheese: Remove from heat and fold in Parmesan cheese until creamy. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, consider adding white wine after toasting the rice before adding broth. - To make this dish vegan, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use vegan margarine instead of olive oil. - Leftover risotto can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of broth.







