Butternut Squash Bake Finished with Goat Cheese and Pistachios

### Butternut Squash Casserole with Goat Cheese and Pistachios

#### Introduction
Butternut squash casserole is an exquisite dish that fuses the inherent sweetness of butternut squash with delicious toppings, crafting a hearty and wholesome meal. This specific recipe enhances the classic casserole by integrating rich goat cheese and crunchy pistachios, leading to a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

#### Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a highly nutritious vegetable, abundant in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It bolsters immune health, contributes to healthy skin, and assists with digestion. Its natural sweetness provides versatility in both savory and sweet recipes.

#### Ingredients
– 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup of goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup of unsalted pistachios, shelled and coarsely chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of thyme (fresh or dried)
– 1 teaspoon of rosemary (fresh or dried)
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 cup of vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Optional: fresh herbs for decoration

#### Instructions

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. **Prepare the Butternut Squash**: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cubed butternut squash and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until soft. Drain and set aside.

3. **Sauté Aromatics**: In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until clear, around 5 minutes. Introduce the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, cooking for an extra 2 minutes until aromatic.

4. **Combine Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked butternut squash, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, and vegetable broth. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the mixture slightly, leaving some pieces intact for texture.

5. **Assemble the Casserole**: Transfer the butternut squash mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly distribute the crumbled goat cheese on top, followed by the chopped pistachios.

6. **Bake**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is somewhat bubbly.

7. **Serve**: Take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if preferred, and serve warm.

#### Pairing Suggestions
This butternut squash casserole pairs excellently with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or as a side for roasted meats. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors beautifully.

#### Conclusion
Butternut squash casserole topped with goat cheese and pistachios is a tasty and healthy dish that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Its blend of creamy, savory, and crunchy elements makes it an exceptional choice for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or potlucks. With its straightforward preparation and remarkable flavor profile, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your collection of recipes.