How cold is it where you are? OMG, the windchill was 5 below this week. I am really trying to embrace these early FRIGID temps just like the Norwegians.
After all, I am a true Minnesotan and I might as well make the best of it! How about you? If you’re a runner, do you put on an extra layer and run outside no matter the temps? OR do you get back on a treadmill?
So yes, most often you’ll find me pounding the pavement in my favorite running gear all winter. It’s been months since I have ran on the treadmill, but this week I said hello to my old friend at the gym when it was a bit too windy making it next to impossible do any thing close to 10K pace. I can’t say I have missed the treadmill, but I am grateful to have one nearby when needed. The good news, this weekend it is going to be 40?. The joys of living in MN❤️️.
And speaking of running gear, my new hat may not be warm enough to wear outside right now, but trust me, it’s been fun to wear shopping, to the gym, around the house, and just about everywhere else except church?.
And Meb says “it looks great on you!” Seeing him share my Insta-story definitley made me smile a little….or maybe alot!
So if you were to ask me what I am most grateful for on a cold and blustery winter day in early November, I would have to say my winter running gear, and this amazing running community I get to be a part of. Thank you Meb for making me feel special and some day I hope to meet you in person.
I am also grateful to be healthy enough to run any distance, but when it’s cold outside, it’s awfully nice to be warm. So remember this, “winter is something to be loved and enjoyed and celebrated”. If at all possible, layer up, get outside, breathe the fresh air, and enjoy winter❤️️.
It’s also a time to enjoy all the beautiful and tasty root veggies. In my last CSA box I was delighted to receive an assorted of winter squash. Butternut squash happens to be my favorite, but Delicata is a close second.
If you are looking for a simple but delicious side dish to dress up your Thanksgiving Table, this is divine! I love squash, but when combined with caramelized onions, garlic & fresh nutmeg, placed in a casserole, topped with a little cheese and some crunchy sourdough bread crumbs, AMAZING!
I promise all your guests will love this!
BUTTERNUT SQUASH CASSREOLE
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut ghee divided
- Good Olive Oil
- 3 cups halved and thinly sliced yellow onions (2 large)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
- 2 pounds butternut squash peeled, halved, seeded, and sliced crosswise 1/8 inch thick
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 to 2 cups coarse fresh bread crumbs from a sourdough loaf
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese (2 ounces)
DIRECTIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Use 1 tablespoon of the butter to grease an 8-½ × 11-½-inch oval baking dish or 9×13 is fine.
- In a large (12-inch) pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 8 minutes, until tender. Stir in the squash, nutmeg, 2 teaspoons salt, and ¾ teaspoon pepper, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Spoon the squash mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top, making sure all of the squash slices are laid flat. I didn’t do the best job with so sharing this tip.
- Pour the cream over the mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the bread crumbs and 2 tablespoons olive oil and mix in the Gruyère. Sprinkle evenly over the squash. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is browned and the squash is very tender when tested in the center with a small knife. Sprinkle with salt and serve hot.
- ENJOY
What’s your favorite squash?
Do you belong to a CSA and if so, does your’s go all year round?
What’s your favorite season and how cold does it have to be before you run inside verses out….and Are you a treadmill fan or do you dread it?
Did you order Meb’s 26 hat….He’s such an amazing athlete and person!
What are you most grateful for this season?
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