LIFESTYLE
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
SERENA HORTON YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER
The Holiday Season Begins!
As we embrace the beautiful months of November and December, from morning walks to cozy gatherings in the Resort Amenity Center, our community continues to thrive with opportunities to stay active, indulge in seasonal treats, and connect with neighbors.
We invite you to enjoy everything that makes life at Esplanade at Artisan Lakes so special. Relax with a seasonal massage or treatment at the Spa with our skilled Massage Therapist, Victoria Thomas. Take advantage of the perfect weather with a pickleball lesson from Head Sports Professional, Zach Combs. Or simply enjoy a quiet moment in our beautiful surroundings
We’ve also added some exciting new clubs to the mix:
» Handicraft Club – A club created for creativity, connection, and fun! Members can come together to sew and decorate dolls, toys,
and seasonal crafts, including festive holiday projects and DIY home décor.
» Meet Your Neighbors Club – A club designed for connection, conversation, and friendship! This group is open to all Members—whether you’re new to the community or a long-time Member who wants to come together, make new friends, and enjoy good company.
For more information on any of our clubs or to join, please visit the Clubs page, where you can find the contact information for each Club Leader. Be sure to check the calendar and stay connected as we make the most of these joyful months together. We can’t wait to see you out and about at Esplanade at Artisan Lakes!
Kaley Fletcher
YOUR CONCIERGE
Where were you born?
Belchertown, Massachusetts
What are your hobbies?
I have many different hobbies, but my main ones are photography and golfing. I love capturing beautiful scenery and memories with my family and friends. Pictures mean a lot to me, and I enjoy looking back at them. I recently got a digital camera and have been taking photos ever since! My other hobby is golfing. I’m not the best, as I only started a few months ago, but it’s something I really enjoy and strive to improve at. I also love driving the golf cart!
What are you most thankful for?
I am most thankful for my family and my boyfriend. My family is always there for me, no matter what, and they have shaped the person I am today. They’ve taught me important values, like staying true to myself. My boyfriend has also been a huge blessing in my life. We’ve been together for three years, and he’s not just my partner but my best friend. Both my family and my boyfriend give me a strong sense of security and belonging. Knowing I have people who love me unconditionally gives me the courage to face any challenge life brings.
Where is the most exciting place you’ve traveled to, and what made it so memorable?
Although I don’t like the cold, my favorite place I’ve traveled to is Jay, Vermont. My boyfriend and our best friends drove four hours to Jay, near the Canadian border, for Christmas. We stayed in our friends’ condo and had such a wonderful time. Jay is a very small, old town surrounded by mountains, and it was absolutely beautiful. Everything was covered in snow, and Christmas decorations were everywhere—I
felt like I was in a movie. The best part was when we went to the top of Jay Peak, one of the mountains, and watched fireworks in our snow gear next to a fire with hot chocolate. We also did other fun things, like decorating the Christmas tree and watching Christmas movies, but the snowy, festive environment made everything feel even more magical.
Do you have any pets?
Yes! I recently got an Australian Shepherd this summer. Her name is Winnie, and she’s my baby. She’s a standard-sized blue merle, and my favorite thing about her is her eyes—one blue and one brown. Winnie is 19 weeks old, currently in her dinosaur stage; she’s very energetic and a little crazy, but absolutely adorable.
Treat Yourself !
Indulge in a well-deserved escape and treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa massage with our talented massage therapist, Victoria Thomas. With her expert touch and personalized approach, Victoria will help you melt away stress and tension, leaving you feeling revitalized and refreshed. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or relief from muscle aches, this is the perfect opportunity to prioritize your well-being and indulge in a moment of tranquility.
Visit the Concierge Desk or call the Resort Amenity Center at 941479-6575 to schedule your appointment today!
Fall Marketplace
With over 45 vendors, this vibrant event offers an exceptional shopping experience.
Explore a wide variety of products, enjoy delicious food, discover wellness offerings, and browse unique items you won’t find anywhere else.
This exclusive community event promises a lively, fun-filled day of shopping, socializing, and supporting local vendors. Don’t miss this chance to experience the best our community has to offer!
Saturday, November 8 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center
Furry Friends
Meet Amadeus
LOVED BY MICHAEL & ELLIE BOEHM
How long has your pet been a part of your family? We’ve had Amadeus for almost two years.
What breed/type is your pet? He is a Yorkie.
How old is he and when is his birthday?
He will be two years old on November 7.
Sibling names or is your pet an only child? Payton (also almost two years old) and Bastian (13 years old).
When you travel, do they travel with you?
They do come with us most of the time if we travel within the USA.
What are their favorite treats?
They all love bacon bites and gruyère cheese.
What are a few amazing qualities about your sweet pup? Amadeus is very sweet, well-behaved, and loves his toy turtle.
Tell us a fun story involving your pet.
One time, a rabbit was in our yard and didn’t run away. Amadeus didn’t know what to do and just stayed there, tail wagging. Since then, the rabbit comes by and they both stay close, just watching each other for quite a while.
WANT TO FEATURE YOUR PET?
Contact your Lifestyle Manager to be featured in the next edition of the Lifestyle Magazine. Answer a few questions about your furry, feathery, or scaly friend and share a couple pictures.
Is Your Yard Hummingbird-Friendly?
In the fall, Florida sees the southward migration of millions of hummingbirds, primarily Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, with some Rufous Hummingbirds also appearing and staying through the winter. Hummingbirds are an important part of our native ecosystem. Learn how you can provide hummingbirds with the habitat essentials they need to survive. For Hummingbird-Friendly Gardening, scan the QR code. To learn more about feeding Hummingbirds through natural sources provided by native plants and insects, visit www.nwf.org/ Native-Plant-Habitats/Resources/Tips-Tools-andVideos/Hummingbird-Feeders.
Exclusive Concierge Offerings
Let us handle the details while you enjoy the moments. To browse the full list of available Esplanade Concierge offerings, visit EsplanadePerks.com and use registration code esplanade2023 to access the Esplanade Member portal. Through the Esplanade Concierge program we are proud to offer you exclusive discounts and rates on everything from local restaurants and attractions, to movie tickets, car rentals, hotels and more! With thousands of local and national offers across 10,000 cities and easy mobile access, you’ll always find a reason to celebrate your savings.
DINING
AMERICAN HONEY CREAMERY
15% discount on the purchase of one item. Mention Esplanade at checkout. 4919 96th Street E, Palmetto 941-981-3830 americanhoneycreamery@gmail.com
WAYPOINT BAR & GRILL
Receive one free order of chips and salsa per visit! Mexican and seafood dishes with fresh ingredients. 11000 US-41, Palmetto, FL 34221 941-212-6600 waypoint27north@gmail.com
DRYER VENT CLEANING
FIREHOUSE DRYER
$85 Per Home contact@firehousedryer.com 941-676-3443 | firehousedryer.com
ANIMAL CARE
BAYSIDE PET RESORT, SARASOTA, OSPREY & LAKEWOOD RANCH 10% off Select Services baysidepetresort.com
TRANSPORTATION
RIDE WITH US | TIZIANA
$5 one-time discount for new clients. tverace74@gmail.com 727-902-4387
FINANCIAL SERVICES
EVERLASTING WEALTH STRATEGIES
Members receive a complimentary 20-minute consultation call. Elisa Rojas: 954-249-3032
HOME IMPROVEMENT
RAINKING WATER FILTRATION PLUS SOFTENING SYSTEM
Enjoy fresh, clean, filtered, soft water in your home. Receive $500 off with purchase of whole house system. Receive a FREE in home water test. 941-525-2786 | rowollet@aol.com rainkingsystems.com
HOME SWEET HOME PAINTING
10% off Home Painting Services using discount code, “SweetHome10” 941-465-8187 sweethomereno5@gmail.com
TRU HOME PROS
10% of any home organization product for Esplanade Members javier@truclosetpros.com truhomepros.com
ZINGA’S
Blinds, Shutters, Shades, Outdoor Screen Shades and Awnings 20% off minimum purchase of $2,500. Kathy Foddrill: 941-254-6514 kathyfoddrill@zingashome.com
OPIE’S QUALITY HOME SERVICES
10% off all Home Improvement Services. Instagram @OpiesQHS opiesqhc@gmail.com
KNOT YET KNOWN INC.
10% off all Services Instagram @KnotYetKnown knotyetknown@gmail.com
KINETIC KRAFTSMEN
10% off Outdoor Kitchens Services and Custom Carpentry Pieces trent@kinetickraftsmen.com
GOLF
TROON ACCESS
25% discount on a Troon Access Membership by entering code ESPLANADE25 at checkout! Save every time you play. troon.com/access
FITNESS, HEALTH & WELLNESS
IN HOME SENIOR FITNESS
Our trainers have backgrounds in physical and occupational therapy with decades of experience with anyone from healthy to wheelchair bound. Mention Esplanade for 10% off. 813-802-8049 | 727-434-3085 inhomeseniorfitness.com
PURE BARRE PARRISH
With code “PBParrish10” Members receive 10% off classes or packages. Inquire about private sessions as well. 941-538-7778
Parrish@Purebarre.com
ARSENAULT AESTHETICS
Members of Esplanade are now eligible for 10% discount at all Arsenault Aesthetics locations. The 10% off can also be combined with existing offers and promotions. Melissa Beachy: 616-886-7052 arsenaultaesthetics.com
BOATING
CARE FREE BOAT CLUB
$500 Off Initiation Fee 4801 37th Street S., St. Petersburg 866-539-2628
Phill.Ross@Carefreeboats.com
Recent Events
Lip Sync SHOWDOWN
The Lip Sync Showdown brought the stage to life as participants lip-synced their favorite songs, delivering all the flair, moves, and stage presence of the original artists. A night full of fun, laughter, and unforgettable performances!
School Supply DRIVE
The community came together to support Virgil Mills Elementary as students prepared for the new school year! Throughout August, school supplies were collected at the Resort Amenity Center to help ensure every child had what they needed to succeed.
Member Meetup PIZZA NIGHT
Members, ages 21–35, gathered for a fun Pizza Night, enjoying a casual chance to connect, share pizza and drinks, and play games.
Tropical BINGO
Members enjoyed a fun-filled Tropical Paradise Bingo night with their Lifestyle Manager at the Resort Amenity Center. Guests dressed in bright colors, floral prints, and island-inspired outfits for an evening of excitement, laughter, and friendly competition!
Recent Events
Knitting Made Easy PUMPKIN DECOR
Participants learned to create festive pumpkin decor using chunky yarn, no tools needed! Crafters chose from bright orange, persimmon, or ivory and enjoyed a fun, creative crafting experience.
Around Town
ANNUAL SIESTA KEY CRYSTAL CLASSIC
November 14 - 17 | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Siesta Key Beach - 948 Beach Road, Sarasota General Admission: $20 | www.visitsarasota.com
Each year, 24 talented sand sculptors from around the world gather for the breathtaking Sandsculpting Competition, transforming mountains of pristine sand into incredible works of art over four days. The event features a massive Group Carve, eight Solo Sculptures, and eight Team Sculptures, with artists working against the clock Thursday through Sunday. Visitors can enjoy the creative process daily, culminating in the Awards Ceremony Sunday at 3 p.m. Special highlights include Sculptures After Dark on Saturday evening, the Learning Curve with daily lessons and demos, the fast-paced Quick Sand Contest, an Amateur Competition on Saturday, and four days of live music under the festival’s big tent.
Pasta Making CLASS
Members learned how to make fresh, homemade pasta using Grandma’s cherished family recipe. They enjoyed wine, great company, and took home their delicious creations!
LAKEWOOD RANCH BLUES FESTIVAL
Saturday, December 6 | 9:30 a.m.
Waterside Place - 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch
Tickets: $75 | lakewoodranchbluesfestival.com
This exciting festival is filled with electrifying performances, delicious food and drink, and an atmosphere pulsating with the rhythms of blues along the water! Easy parking, a bevy of the best local vendors, open seating, and a front of stage seating experience!
Jesus, Laura & Alizabeth Martinez
The Members of our community are truly what make this a wonderful place to live. In each edition, we will spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing people that call our community home. If you would like to be featured or want to nominate another Member, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.
Q: Why did you choose Palmetto, FL / Esplanade at Artisan Lakes? Is your residency full-time or part-time? If part-time, where else do you spend your time?
We moved to Florida because Jesus had wanted to move here for a long time. About three years ago, he started looking for houses with the help of our friend and Realtor. We searched in Central Florida until she asked us why we wanted to live in Florida, and I replied, “Because Jesus loves the beach.” We stumbled upon this area and fell in love with the location, as it is close to Tampa, Orlando, Sarasota, Fort Myers, and the Gulf. We liked the neighborhood, the way it was designed, and all that it has to offer. We are full-time Members and travel to Texas often to see our other grown children and friends.
Q: How long have you lived at Esplanade at Artisan Lakes?
We have lived in Esplanade at Artisan Lakes for nearly two years and expect to stay here for many years to come.
Q: What Lifestyle programs are you most interested in? Are you in a club? Do you attend any classes/clinics? Also, tell us your hobbies: We enjoy the Signature Events and we participate in pickleball socials and will soon join bocce, cornhole, and billiards. We enjoy playing pickleball for both the social and physical aspects and have met many very nice, welcoming people from all over while playing. We also appreciate the amenities in this neighborhood. Traveling, exploring different cuisines and cultures, and riding our bikes are among some of our hobbies.
Q: Tell us about your family and current or past professions. Jesus graduated from Texas Christian University with a degree in Computer Science and worked in IT for his entire career. Laura worked in healthcare in an administrative capacity.
Q: What is the best advice you have ever received or given?
After Jesus graduated, his dad advised us to stay and accept the job offer, even though we wanted to return home, which turned out to be great advice.
Q: Where is the most exciting place you’ve traveled to and what made it so memorable?
We have traveled to many places in Europe, South and Central America, the Caribbean, and Asia. We particularly love Spain, France, Finland, and Italy. Unique architecture, beautiful landscapes, rich history, gastronomy, and personal experiences make these places truly memorable.
Q: Tell us something that might surprise people.
We are originally from Venezuela and moved to the U.S. in 1978. We lived in Colorado for about nine months, where we studied English, and then moved to Texas to continue our education. We have four children; a son, Daniel, who is 37, and triplet daughters who are 31, one of whom is Alizabeth (“Ali”).
Q: Anything else you’d like to share?
We are very fortunate to live in this great area and to have met so many wonderful people!
Men’s MonthlyDinner Group
Third Monday 5 - 8 p.m. Offsite
The Men’s Monthly Dinner Group has been going strong for six years and continues to be a wonderful opportunity for neighbors to connect in a casual, friendly setting. New members are welcome and encouraged to join.
The next dinner will be held on Monday, November 17 at Duffy’s Sports Bar on University in Sarasota. The group carpools together, leaving the community around 5 p.m., with volunteer drivers helping to ensure a safe trip. Participants who volunteer as drivers are entered into special driver raffles, and there are also a couple of raffles for everyone attending.
These dinners tend to fill up quickly, so we encourage you to register as soon as possible. To attend or learn more, contact Group Leader, Scott Durann at sdurann@gmail.com.
Upcoming Events
All activities/events subject to change. For details and to register, visit esplanadeartisanlakeslifestyle.com/events.
TASTY THURSDAY FOOD TRUCK NIGHTS
Thursdays, November 6 & December 4 | 5 - 8 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Parking Lot
Why cook when you can indulge in delicious meals from the best local food trucks? Every first Thursday, join your neighbors for an evening of great food, fun, and zero kitchen cleanup. Pick up your favorite dish to take home or enjoy it with friends on the extended lanai. It’s the perfect way to savor tasty eats and good company, so mark your calendar and come hungry! Find food truck details on the Esplanade event calendar online.
CAM CHAT
Every Tuesday
The Venue II | By Appointment Only
Schedule a one-on-one meeting with your Community Association Manager (CAM) to have all your questions answered! Appointments can be made by emailing EALMemberCare@TeamEsplanade.com. Meetings are available in person, by phone, or via video chat.
A SLICE OF TRIVIA
Tuesdays, November 18 & December 16 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
Grab your family and neighbors for a night of trivia and pizza! Great Big Trivia host Jeremy will be asking questions that strike the right balance between fun and challenging. This activity is $5 per Member. Your ticket includes a night of trivia, prizes for the winning team and two slices of pizza!
BINGO NIGHT
Thursdays, November 20 & December 18 | 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
Calling all Members 18 years and older! Join us for an exciting Bingo Night filled with laughter, friendly competition, and a chance to win! Bring your game face and get ready for a night of fun you won’t want to miss. See you there!
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY
Fridays, November 21 & December 19 | 5 - 8 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Parking Lot
Skip the kitchen and start your weekend with delicious meals from the best local food trucks! Whether you’re picking up dinner to go for the family or relaxing with friends on our extended lanai, it’s the perfect way to treat yourself. No cooking, no cleanup, just great food and even better company. Come hungry and ready for a flavorful Friday night! Find food truck details on the Esplanade event calendar online.
PAWS & CLAUS: PHOTOS WITH SANTA
Sunday, November 23 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
Bring your four-legged friends for a festive photo opportunity! The Humane Society is hosting this special event where you can get adorable photos of your pets with Santa. All proceeds will go to supporting the Humane Society and their important work.
BLOOD DRIVE HOSTED BY ONEBLOOD
Thursday, December 18 | 1 - 7 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Parking Lot
Donate blood and receive a $20 e-gift card, wellness checkup, and a special takeaway. Visit the Esplanade event calendar online for details on how to schedule your appointment.
TREE LIGHTING POTLUCK & KARAOKE
Tuesday, December 9 | 6 - 9 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center
Get ready to jingle all the way to our annual Tree Lighting Potluck & Holiday Karaoke, where holiday magic comes to life! Bring your favorite appetizer or dessert to share as we gather around the twinkling tree, sip hot cocoa, and sing along to festive holiday tunes. It’s a night filled with laughter, cheer, and sweet holiday memories with friends. Warm up your vocal cords and join the fun!
Fitness & Wellness Events
SOUND BATH MEDITATION
Sundays, November 23 & December 28 | 5 - 6 p.m.
Movement Studio
Escape the hustle and bustle with our calming Sound Bath Meditation. Join us for a serene session where you can unwind, relax, and reconnect with your inner peace. Let soothing sounds and gentle guidance lead you into a state of tranquility.
This is your time to breathe deeply and embrace stillness—perfect for rejuvenating your mind and spirit. Come and find your calm!
Culinary Event
ANN MAE’S POP-UP SHOP
Saturdays, November 1 & 15 | 9 - 11 a.m.
Resort Amenity Center Cafe
Ann Mae’s Pop-up Shop is coming to the Resort Amenity Center Cafe with a delightful selection of freshly made goodies! Enjoy a variety of baked items, pastries, and seasonal specialties.
Ann Mae will be there the first and third Saturday of every month, stop by and start your weekend with something delicious.
Monthly Member Meetings
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Nov. 6 at 9:30 a.m. & Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. Resort Amenity Center
Join your Lifestyle Manager for some coffee, as we discuss the most current Lifestyle news updates in a relaxed atmosphere.
FITNESS CENTER EQUIPMENT ORIENTATION
Thursdays, November 6 & December 4 | 4:10 - 5:10 p.m. Fitness Center
Join Trainer Andrew for an informative Fitness Orientation session designed to help you get the most out of our Fitness Center. These sessions will guide you through the proper and safe use of our equipment, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable during your workouts. Whether you’re new to the gym or just need a refresher, this is a great opportunity to learn proper techniques and ask questions.
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Thursdays, November 13 & December 11 9:30 a.m. | Resort Amenity Center
Join your Community Association Manager (CAM) for the most current updates about your community.
ESPLANADE 101
Thursdays, November 13 & December 11 11 a.m. | Resort Amenity Center
Join us for the new homeowner orientation with the Lifestyle Manager and CAM as we introduce you to everything Esplanade.
Interest Groups & Social Clubs
Weekly Member Clubs
BILLIARDS CLUB
Tuesdays | 3 - 5 p.m.
Al Agabiti: aaa3605@gmail.com
BOCCE CLUB
Wednesdays | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Kim Palmer: kimpalmer8733@gmail.com
BOOT CAMP
Mondays | 9 - 10 a.m. | Movement Studio
Erin Gagnon: eringagnon40@gmail.com
Kelly Manous: pkcgmano@yahoo.com
COUNTRY + POP FUSION DANCE PARTY CLUB
Tuesdays | 2:30 - 4 p.m.
Kristie Morand: kristiemorand@verizon.net
HAPPY
HOUR BOCCE
Wednesdays | 3 - 5 p.m.
John Uhouse: johnu52@yahoo.com
LADIES BRIDGE
Wednesdays | 12:45 - 4 p.m. | Card Room
Dorene Mallard: dmallard1750@gmail.com
Monthly Member Clubs
BOOK CLUB
4th Monday | 6 p.m. | Location Varies
Sue Barber: barber.sue@gmail.com
BUNCO
Third Monday | 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Helene Castellon: helenecastellon@gmail.com
CARS IN THE MORNING
Various Days | Resort Amenity Center
John Wright: johnbcruzn@aol.com
DUPLICATE BRIDGE
2nd & 4th Thurs | 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Dorene Mallard: dmallard1750@gmail.com
EUCHRE CARD CLUB
3rd Thursday | 5 p.m. | The Venue II
Dee Hamm: deehamm78@gmail.com
LINE DANCING CLUB
Wednesdays 1 - 2 p.m. | Fridays 12:152:15 p.m. | Saturdays 11 a.m.
Movement Studio
Toby Kelley: tkelley@tampabay.rr.com
MAHJONG
Mondays | 12 - 3 p.m. | The Venue II
Joann Von Werne: popsrvw@aol.com
MARTIAL
ARTS CLUB
Tuesdays | 1 - 2 p.m. | Movement Studio
Lee Monday: leemondayphd@gmail.com
PINOCHLE CARD CLUB
Wednesdays | 3 - 4:30 p.m.
Ken Finc: kenfinc@gmail.com
SHANGHAI RUMMY
Thursdays | 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Pam Pennetta: pampennetta@gmail.com
SOCIAL BOCCE
Thursdays | 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Bonnie Sikes: kbsikes51@gmail.com
GOLF CART CLUB
Various Days
Cindy Byno: cbyno@icloud.com
GOLF CLUB
Various Days
Dan Santor: dsantork@aol.com
HANDICRAFT
CLUB
1st & 3rd Saturdays | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Yuliya Ozparca: yozparca@gmail.com
LADIES LUNCHEON
2nd Wednesday | 12 p.m. | Offsite
Sue Brett: Suebrett0424@gmail.com
MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS CLUB
Various Days
Lisa Hoffman: ort-hoffman@juno.com
SAMBA CARD CLUB
Tuesdays | 12 - 4:30 p.m.
The Venue II
Susan Howe: susanahowe@gmail.com
SPIN CLUB
Various Days
Dave Sutton: cycleguy605@gmail.com
TABLE TENNIS CLUB
Tuesdays & Wednesdays I 2:30 - 4 p.m.
The Venue II
Lee Monday: leemondayphd@gmail.com
TABLE TOP GAMES CLUB
Wednesdays I 7 - 9 p.m.
The Venue II
Rob Taylor: EAAL.tabletopgames@gmail.com
TENNIS CLUB
Mixed Intermediate Tuesdays & Thursdays | 6 - 8 p.m.
Tennis Courts 1 & 2
Jeff Hootman: jahooter@gmail.com
MEN’S DINNER GROUP
3rd Monday | 5 - 8 p.m. | Offsite
Scott Durann: sdurann@gmail.com
NEIGHBORS BREAKING BREAD
Various Days
Diane Green: juniemoon083@gmail.com
OENOPHILE CLUB
1st Wednesday | 6:30 p.m.
Kathy Regan: kmcregan@gmail.com
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR SINGLES
1st Monday | 7 p.m.
Helene Castellon: helenecastellon@gmail.com
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sage & Brown Butter
Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 60 min | Serving Size: 6
This warm, seasonal soup is perfect for November and December gatherings. Its smooth, creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor from brown butter make it a cozy, elegant starter. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and easy to make ahead for lunch or dinner.
INGREDIENTS
» 1 large butternut squash (about 2–3 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
» 2 tablespoons olive oil
» Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
» 1 medium onion, chopped
» 2 cloves garlic, minced
» 4 cups vegetable broth
» 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
» 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
» 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
» 8–10 fresh sage leaves
» 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Roast the Squash:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Cook Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Combine and Simmer: Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, nutmeg, and cinnamon to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Blend:
Using an immersion blender (or carefully in batches with a regular blender), puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Return to the pot and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Brown the Butter and Sage:
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it turns golden brown and fragrant. Add the sage leaves and sauté for 1–2 minutes until crispy.
6. Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with brown butter and sage leaves. Add a splash of cream if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy, festive touch.