Butternut Squash Basmati Rice

Elevate your weeknight meals with this fragrant and hearty Butternut Squash Basmati Rice recipe, a perfect combination of warm spices, tender squash, and fluffy basmati rice. Infused with earthy cumin and a hint of cinnamon, this dish delivers an aromatic twist on classic rice pilaf. Savory onions and garlic create a flavorful base, while the natural sweetness of butternut squash balances the spices beautifully. Cooked in water or vegetable broth for added richness, this one-pot wonder is as simple as it is satisfying. Ready in just 45 minutes, it's ideal as a comforting vegetarian main or a versatile side dish. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that ties it all together. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is a must-try for fall and beyond!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 cup Basmati rice, rinsed
• 2 cups Water or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the garlic, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the diced butternut squash to the saucepan. Stir well to coat the squash in the onion-spice mixture.

Step 5

Pour in the rinsed basmati rice, water (or vegetable broth), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 7

Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 8

Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 9

Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary.

Step 10

Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1316.9 grams (1316.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	811

Total Fat 31.00g	40%
Saturated Fat 4.60g	23%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4272mg	186%
Total Carbohydrate 129.80g	47%
Dietary Fiber 14.70g	53%
Total Sugars 16.40g
Protein 15.20g	30%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 344mg	26%
Iron 7mg	37%
Potassium 2229mg	47%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.5%

Protein: 7.1%

Carbs: 60.4%