Butternut Squash Quinoa with Pancetta, Sage and Pine Nuts for the Whole Family

As I mentioned in my previous post, once autumn hits I am always on the hunt for winter squash recipes. I found this recipe in the February 2011 Bon Appetit magazine (yes I hold on to cooking magazines for a really long time ha!).  I changed a few things from the original recipe to make it more kid friendly, and a little healthier. This recipe is for little ones 10+ months who are ready for finger food and Mommies and Daddies of all ages. You can also puree this for little ones 8+ months.

Here's what you need for 4 to 6 servings:
1 medium size butternut squash peeled, seeded and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
1 medium size onion finely chopped
1 1/2 cups organic quinoa
1 1/2 cups organic chicken broth
3/4 cup toasted pine nuts
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Shaved parmesan cheese (to put on top at end)
4 oz diced pancetta cooked crisply
Olive oil
salt

Heat 2 tsp olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Add the squash and season with a little salt and saute until it begins to brown, stirring often (approx 5 minutes).  Reduce heat to medium, and add the chopped sage, cook until squash is tender, about 8 minutes. Remove to plate and wipe skillet clean. While squash is cooking put quinoa in pot with 1 cup water and 1 1/2 cups chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low or simmer. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Heat 2 tsp olive oil, in same large skillet that was used for squash, over medium high heat. Add chopped onions and a pinch or 2 of salt and saute until onions are tender and beginning to brown (approx 5 or 6 minutes). Add cooked quinoa, grated parmesan, pine nuts and pancetta to onions in skillet and toss. Cook for 2 minutes, add squash and season with a little salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Cook for a few more minutes and then transfer quinoa to a large serving bowl. Top with shaved parmesan, serve and enjoy! If you are pureeing, place your little one's portion (4 to 5 oz) into a food processor and add water until you get the desired texture.