Esplanade Lifestyle - Azario | Nov/Dec 2025

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LIFESTYLE

LETTER FROM THE LIFESTYLE TEAM

A note on what's coming up

TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Meet Morgan Morrison

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

David & Marie Greene

SIGNATURE EVENT

It’s a Wonderful Lifestyle

PET FEATURE

Furry Friend: Taco

COMMUNITY STEWARDSHIP

NWF: Is Your Yard HummingbirdFriendly?

CONCIERGE

Exclusive offerings, just for you!

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT Recent Events

SPA Spa Specials

A LOOK AHEAD

Upcoming Events

GET INVOLVED Interest Groups & Social Clubs

ESPLANADE CONNECT

Pickled Pink Pickleball Tournament

FEATURED EVENT

Fall in Love with Wellness

CULINARY

Tapas & Tequilas

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Around Town

CULINARY

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Conrad Tidswell, General Manager 941-253-2925

Conrad.Tidswell@TeamEsplanade.com

Doug Walkowiak, Community Association Manager, 941-253-2910

Doug.Walkowiak@TeamEsplanade.com

Chris McDonald, Food & Beverage Director, 941-253-2908

Chris.McDonald@TeamEsplanade.com

Ashley Tuohy, Assistant Community Association Manager, 941-253-2913

Ashley.Tuohy@TeamEsplanade.com

Felicia Frickx, Lifestyle Manager

Felicia.Frickx@TeamEsplanade.com

Mary Winter, Wellness and Sports Director, 941-253-2921

Mary.Winter@TeamEsplanade.com

Stephen Smith, Landscaping Manager Stephen.Smith@TeamEsplanade.com

Charlie Spina, Courts Manager Charlie.Spina@TeamEsplanade.com

AZARIO GOLF

Mike Tuohy, PGA, Director of Golf 941-253-2911

Mike.Tuohy@TeamEsplanade.com

TAYLOR MORRISON SALES

Sales Gallery Hours Sun, 12 - 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Community Sales Team

Maria Amundson 941-462-5871 MAmundson@TaylorMorrison.com

Melanie Byrnes 941-773-4109

MByrnes@TaylorMorrison.com

Joey DeStefano 941-724-5639

JDeStefano@TaylorMorrison.com

Rod Mesplay 863-266-7769

RMesplay@TaylorMorrison.com

Elizabeth Sherwood 949-400-6677

ESherwood@TaylorMorrison.com

Levent Yamuk 941-320-3006

LYamuk@TaylorMorrison.com

800-720-0028 Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Letter From the Lifestyle Team

The Holiday Season in Here!

As we move into the final months of the year, the air feels a little brighter, the gatherings a little warmer, and the spirit of the season surrounds us. November and December are wonderful reminders of the joy that comes from spending time with family, friends, and neighbors, sharing laughter, creating memories, and celebrating the moments that bring us together.

This November, we’ll kick things off with a musical journey through the decades at 50 Years of Rock N Roll at the Van Wezel, followed by our community Friendsgiving Potluck, a chance to gather around the table and celebrate gratitude with friends old and new.

December brings the magic of the holidays with festive outings and cozy creative fun. Join us for the Holiday Lights Tour, a chance to experience the sparkle of the season, and our Sip & Sleigh Paint Night, where you can toast to the holidays while creating a keepsake to treasure.

No matter how you celebrate, may these months be filled with joy, togetherness, and the spirit of community. I look forward to sharing this special season with all of you.

Morgan Morrison

YOUR MEMBERSHIP MANAGER

Morgan Morrison was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and grew up in Indiana. At 18, she followed her dream of living near the coast and has been building both her personal and professional life there ever since. She’s currently working toward her bachelor’s degree in business management with a specialization in Marketing at CSU Global and will graduate this coming January.

Before stepping into her current role, Morgan spent two years serving and bartending at the Bahama Bar and Barrel House, where she gained valuable experience in hospitality. In her free time, she loves relaxing by the water, trying new restaurants, and visiting her family back in Indiana.

David & Marie Green

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 Resort Manager.

David and Marie Green moved to Lakewood Ranch from Raleigh, North Carolina, after spending seven years searching the west coast of Florida for the right community. They wanted more than just a golf neighborhood—they were looking for a lifestyle community where golf, food, and fun were central. When they discovered Esplanade Azario, they knew their search was complete.

They enjoy traveling often, with favorite destinations including Cabo San Lucas, Italy, and other parts of Europe, especially where culinary and wine experiences shine. At Azario, they take part in a wide range of activities—golf, aquatic programs, and SIP Wine Club events are favorites.

Both are members of the Curated Kitchen, Sporting Club, and Together We Can, while Marie also enjoys creative arts, book club, yoga, and girlfriend’s happy hour. For something lighter, they like trivia nights, neighborhood bar crawls, and card or gaming activities. At home, they love cooking together, frequently making dishes like grilled or baked salmon, Chilean cod with tomatoes, and chicken marsala.

Wonderful It’s a Lifestyle

Saturday, December 6

7 - 10 p.m. | $52

Culinary Center

Toast to the wonderful life at Esplanade. Step into the magic of the season! Enjoy an evening filled with plenty of holiday spirit as we bring neighbors together to share joy, laughter, and warm memories as we celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

Furry Friends

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.

Meet Taco

LOVED BY ANDREA, ARI & JAMIE EIBLUM

Taco is a charming 13-year-old Chihuahua mix with a big personality. His journey began in West Virginia, where he spent his first year in a shelter before being rescued by Small Miracles in Maryland, the place where his forever family found him. Today, Taco happily splits his time between Maryland and Florida.

Sociable and friendly, Taco eagerly awaits greetings from both dogs and humans. He loves curling up on his humans’ laps, riding in cars, and sunbathing on the deck or lanai. A true foodie, he especially enjoys salmon treats and Frosty Paws ice cream cups.

This past June, Taco turned 13, and his humans threw him a memorable Backyard Bar Mitzvah in Maryland. Nineteen canine pals joined the celebration, which featured a baby pool and plenty of treats. Since moving to Esplanade Azario, Taco has been enjoying life to the fullest. He has made new friends at the dog park, joined spontaneous sidewalk meetups and Yappy Hours, and even took his very first golf cart ride with his buddy Teddy. He was curious, calm, and ready for more adventures.

Over the years, Taco has collected many nicknames, including Lil Man, Junior, Punkin, Mr. T, Nugget, and Joey.

Taco is thrilled to be part of the Azario community and is always excited to meet new friends, both human and canine. If you see him around the neighborhood, please stop to say hello, offer a belly rub, or share a treat.

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

Part of the Esplanade Lifestyle is rolling out the red carpet and giving our Members VIP access to exclusive offers and services! We’ll continue to build and foster these relationships with local organizations and businesses to offer special rates for our community. If you know of a business that would like to partner with Esplanade at Azario Lakewood Ranch, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. To see full details on all offerings, visit esplanadeazariolifestyle.com/concierge.

GOLF

TROON ACCESS

Members receive 25% off a Troon Access Membership. From Kapalua, to Gamble Sands and Troon North, golfers experience the World of Troon at the best rates at more than 150 world-class courses. Use code “ESPLANADE25” when registering. troon.com/access

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BRAIN & BODY CHIROPRACTIC, THE WELLNESS WAY

Food Allergy Testing & More 10% Off All Services 941-702-0553

CELEBRATORY YARD SIGNS

SIGN DREAMERS OF BRADENTON

$60/day for a Single Day Sign Rental Derek Pardue 941-773-5766

CONCIERGE SERVICES

CARVER CONCIERGE SERVICES

Free consultation & 10% off 1st month. 813-546-4070 carverconcierge.com

FOOD

TWO CHEFS ON HILLVIEW

Specialty Food Shop | 10% Off $40+ 941-210-3535 twochefsonhillview.com

SPORTING GOODS

VANHUNKS BOARDING

10% off a full price board or boat. Tyrone: 941-218-9095 vanhunksboarding.com

CAR SERVICES

SARASOTA AIRPORT, SHUTTLE & TRANSPORTATION

Private passenger transportation to all Florida airports, cruise ports, entertainment venues, sports arenas. Long distance point-to-point. Luxury large capacity SUV / Van service.

Mention this ad for 10% off 239-410-9748

SuncoastAirportShuttle.com

KEITH BLOSEY Car Service keithblosey@gmail.com 239-410-9748

JAX CAR WASH

Complimentary car wash (one per person) and 10% off detailing services. 941-746-9274

jaxkarwashfl.com/freebestwash

WOODY’S CAR WASH

$10 off per month on the top 3 membership packages. Use code “AZARIO10” at checkout. 855-559-3355 woodieswash.com

PET SERVICES

K9 REVIVE

All-Natural Dog Supplements 10% off using the code AZARIO10. k9revive.com

BAYSIDE PET RESORT 10% off services. 941-755-3047 baysidepetresort.com

LUXURY PET SPA

Mobile Pet Grooming 10% Off Stanley: 941-330-3414

HOME SERVICES

ELEMENT PRO

Elevate the cleanliness of your home with our premium cleaning services. 10% off all home cleaning packages. Mario: 941-549-0023

HOMEWORX

Custom Accent & Fireplace Walls, Built-In’s, Interior Painting, Ceiling Designs, Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring and Wainscoting. Light Fixture and Ceiling Fan Installations. 973-886-7399 homeworxproservices.com

HOME SERVICES BY PETER

All Home Services Available 10% off & free consultation. 941-893-7131

PARADISE GRILLS & OUTDOOR KITCHENS 10-20% off retail. 941-271-3048 | paradisegrills.com

STOP SLIP SOLUTIONS INC. 10% off surfaces safer to walk on. Mary Ann Hollander: 941-600-8031 stopslipsolutionsinc.com

ZINGA’S

Blinds, Shutters, Shades, Outdoor Screen Shades and Awnings 20% off all products (excluding pergolas).

$1,500 off any power pergola. 844-494-6427 | zingashome.com

CRUISING

SRQ CRUISES

Experienced cruise consultant offering additional discounts and onboard credit. Let me plan your unforgettable adventure! 941-271-1539 | SRQcruises.com

Recent Events

Mix & Mingle

EVENT

Members enjoyed a memorable evening with a live caricature artist, each receiving a personalized drawing to take home. They were amazed by Laurence the Mind Magician and his mind-bending performance, all while snacking on a delicious charcuterie board throughout the night.

Oasis Park OPENING CELEBRATION

Members of all ages flocked to Oasis Park, the newest amenity at Azario. Those who came received free ice cream from the Ice Cream Emergency Truck. They enjoyed music from a live DJ, fun games, and the chance to mingle with fellow Members during this exciting evening outdoors.

Marine Wildlife Rescue &

REHABILITATION SEMINAR

Members attended an engaging and informative seminar presented by the Mote Aquarium, learning how the organization rescues, rehabilitates, and releases sea turtles and marine mammals affected by boat strikes, fishing line entanglements, red tide, and more. The seminar also provided education on how Members can help and featured a virtual tour of the new Mote Science and Education Aquarium.

Game Day Grub

POTLUCK

Members kicked off the season with a potluck full of game day classics, featuring wings, sliders, dips, chili, and all the fan-favorite tailgate snacks. Everyone joined in the fun by bringing dishes that showcased their favorite flavors—sweet, savory, or spicy—and dressed in their favorite team gear to complete the festive atmosphere.

Recent Events

Spa Specials

SPA-LA-LA

Saturday, December 6 l 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wellness Center l $10 per Member

Get your holiday shopping started without leaving home! Mark your calendar! You’re invited for a day of wellness, relaxation, and retail therapy! All Members are invited to sip champagne, enjoy sweet treats, and enjoy the most relaxing holiday shopping!

» All Members that register will receive a $20 shopping credit for purchases over $100.

» Anyone spending $500 or more will receive our Esplanade Signature Robe.

» Spend $500, and you will be entered into a raffle to win a $500 Gift Card at The Spa and an annual single fitness membership a value of over $1000.

There will be a great variety of gift-giving ideas, with preferred Member pricing for holiday purchases, like our infamous table of 20 gift items under $20, and gift-with-purchase promotions! We will showcase all of our holiday merchandise, including jewelry, clothing and more! Advance registration is not required but highly advised.

Boogie

Through

THE DECADES

Members celebrated National Dance Day in style at Boogie Through the Decades, mingling with friends and dancing to the greatest hits from the 1950s through the 2000s. Light bites kept everyone fueled for the dance floor, and the Best Outfit Contest rewarded standout looks from across the eras. It was a lively night of music, fun, and timeless moves!

Upcoming Events

Keep an eye on weekly Lifestyle emails for more fun and enriching events! All activities and events are subject to change. Visit esplanadeazariolifestyle.com to see the most up-to-date information.

POOL & PING PONG SOCIAL

Tuesday, November 4 | 6 - 8 p.m.

The Venue

Looking for some friendly competition? Join us for an evening of pool and ping pong where you can meet other members who enjoy the game as much as you do! Whether you’re here to show off your skills or just play for fun, it’s the perfect chance to connect, laugh, and rally with new friends.

MOVIE NIGHT

Friday, November 14 | 6 - 8 p.m.

Oasis Park

Join us under the stars for our family-friendly outdoor movie night! Bring your own chairs or lawn blankets for a comfortable evening, and don’t forget your favorite snacks and beverages. Relax with friends and neighbors as we enjoy a featured film in a casual, openair setting.

THE BOOK OF MORMON

Friday, December 12 | 7 - 9 p.m.

Van Wezel | $125

This outrageous musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. With standing room only productions across the world, this has truly become an international sensation.

Monthly Member Meetings

ESPLANADE 101

Tuesdays, November 11 & December 9

10 a.m. | Zoom

Join us for new homeowner orientation with the Lifestyle Manager and Community Association Manager as we introduce you to everything Esplanade. Come with questions!

SIP AND SLEIGH

Sunday, December 14 | 1 - 3 p.m.

The Venue | $42

Unleash your inner artist and get into the holiday spirit! Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just here for the wine and winter cheer, this is the perfect way to unwind. Sip, paint, and sleigh your way through an afternoon of festive creativity. No experience necessary.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Thursdays, November 20 & December 18 10 a.m. | Zoom

Join your Community Association Manager for the most current updates about your community. Meetings will be held in person and via Zoom.

COFFEE & CONVERSATION

Tuesdays, November 25 & December 23 9:30 a.m. | The Venue

Join your Lifestyle Manager for coffee and conversation, as we discuss the latest and greatest Lifestyle news in a relaxed and social atmosphere.

Interest Groups & Social Clubs

Doing more of what makes us happy is called the key to life by many. Share your passion and take the first step by attending or creating a club/group today. Any Member wishing to develop a club or group should contact the Lifestyle team to receive information and an application.

Current Groups & Clubs

AZARIO BAR CRAWL CLUB

Doneen Hoffman: 703-472-5211 or doneenhoffman@yahoo.com

AZARIO LADIES GAMERS

Cristine Radice: ccradice@gmail.com

AZARIO OUT AND ABOUT CLUB

Jeannine D’Allegro: 908-432-0829 or dallegro0106@gmail.com

AZARIO RUN/WALK CLUB

John D’Allegro: johnd742@icloud.com

AZARIO SPORTING CLUB

Eric Kunkel: 708-565-3918 or kunks57@gmail.com

AZARIO SUNSET SISTERS

Cristine Radice: ccradice@gmail

AZARIO WOMEN’S GOLF

Sue Jebson: susanjebson@yahoo.com

BIRD WATCHING CLUB

Mary Alice: macurtiss@me.com or 571-216-1377.

BOOK CLUB

Susan Parelman: stodd49@yahoo.com

Sheri Schiff: sherischiff@comcast.net

Myra Perlis: mymyperlis@gmail.com

BOWLING CLUB

Gary Lanser: garylanser@gmail.com

BUNCO CLUB

Third Thursday | 6:30 - 8 p.m.

The Venue

Darla Perz: darlaperz@outlook.com or 412-400-5790

Jennifer Chudy: 845-664-1913

CANASTA CLUB

Wednesday | 1 - 4 p.m.

The Venue

Susan Parelman: stodd49@gmail.com or 847-707-2402

CURATED KITCHEN

Jawan Goodspeed: jawan@vt.edu or 571-528-4542

CREATIVE ARTS CLUB

Third Tuesday

Locations & Times Vary

Nancy Borchers: 513-379-2747 or nancy.borchers@gmail.com

CORNHOLE CLUB

Select Tuesdays | 6 - 8 p.m.

The Venue

Tom Vandehey: tomvandehey@outlook.com or 941-324-6092

CYCLING CLUB

Richard Josephson: 330-414-2905 or josephson.richard@gmail.com

DINING DIVAS

Betts Murdison: bettsm67@att.net or 706-836-7030

EUCHRE CLUB

Steve Barr: 248-535-4838 or stevebarr32@gmail.com

EVENING SOCIAL BRIDGE

Lizanne Snyder: lizannesnyder@gmail.com or 908-279 -5767

FILM CLUB

Steve Gold: 845-558-1266 or stevegold53@gmail.com

GARDEN CLUB

Fourth Saturday | 1 - 3 p.m.

Rosemary Vermost: 309-721-1213 or rosesbeaches@gmail.com

GIRLFRIENDS HAPPY HOUR

Last Tuesday The Venue

Shelley Johnson: 419-571-3609 or ksjohnson6366@gmail.com

ITALIAN CLUB

Tom Ricketts: azarioitalianclub@gmail.com or 248-866-0761

MAHJONG CLUB

Tuesday at 1 p.m. | Thursday at 2:30 p.m.

The Venue

Tuesday - Barbara Drew: bdmeetings@ gmail.com; Thursday - Kathleen Piper: 352-362-8255

MEANINGFUL MANHOOD

John Lewis: 704-650-7343 or john_s_lewis@yahoo.com

MEANINGFUL WOMEN

Jen Champion: jenchampion01@gmail.com or 402-681-0625

OUT AND ABOUT CLUB

Jeannine D’Allegro: jdallegro0106@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB

First Tuesday | 10 - 11:30 a.m.

The Venue

Steven Wolfson: vonwolf.sw@gmail.com or 516-317-4808

PICKLEBALL CLUB

Darla Perz: 412-400-5790 or darlaperz@outlook.com

PLANT BASED EATING FOR EVERYONE cfrazier731@gmail.com

SAMBA CLUB

First Three Fridays | 1 p.m.

The Venue

Antoinette Gambardella: 516-428-1206 or acgambardella@gmail.com

TENNIS CLUBS

Ladies Tennis - Lisa Powell: 770-238-6563

Azario Tennis

Gabby Ferraro: 201-394-6338

TOGETHER WE CAN GROUP

Patti Barr: togetherwecanazario@gmail.com

TRAVEL CLUB

Harsha Reddy: harshareddy798@gmail.com

Pickled Pink Pickleball Tournament

Our community came together for the Pickled Pink Pickleball Tournament, raising funds for My Breast Friend, 941. Members enjoyed a lively day on the courts with spirited competition, a delicious food truck, exciting raffles, and plenty of camaraderie—all in support of the fight against breast cancer. The event also featured a heartfelt tribute to survivors, who were honored with a beautiful floral bouquet. A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all the competitors, spectators, sponsors, and staff whose energy and support made this meaningful day such a success. We raised $5100 for My Breast Friend, 941!

YOUR HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPO

At Esplanade, our approach to wellness is multi-faceted and designed to create a holistic experience for our Members and guests. It is in this spirit that we are pleased to invite you to our annual health and wellness expo, Fall in Love with Wellness.

Within the expo, you will have the opportunity to meet a variety of health and wellness providers in the area. Connect with health professionals, holistic practitioners, mental health experts, and other partners from our library of concierge services as you learn more about how you can interconnect the 8 dimensions of wellness into your life. Exciting raffles and light refreshments will be available for your enjoyment!

12 - 2 P.M.

EXPLORE OUR WELLNESS ECOSYSTEM

Esplanade offers unique wellness programming that invigorates the mind, body, and spirit. Take your health and fitness to the next level with our thoughtfully curated inspired-living wellness programming. During our wellness expo, meet with local wellness partners, holistic practitioners and health professionals to explore ways to embrace Esplanade’s multi-dimensional Wellness Ecosystem:

Emotional | Physical | Spiritual Social | Environmental | Financial Intellectual | Occupational

Tapas & Tequila M

embers were invited to a special evening where fine tequila met gourmet tapas. They discovered expertly curated pairings featuring two renowned tequila brands—Jose Cuervo, Reserva de la Familia and Gran Centenario. This immersive experience took place in the Banquet Room and offered a delightful journey through food and fine tequila.

Guests enjoyed a five-course tasting menu, with each dish artfully paired with a selected tequila that complemented and enhanced its flavors. Throughout the evening, an expert guided attendees through the history and nuances of each tequila, sharing tasting notes and stories behind the craft.

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. Featuring a massive Group Carve, eight Solo Sculptures, and eight Team Sculptures, with artists working Thursday through Sunday. Visitors can enjoy the creative process daily, culminating in the Awards Ceremony Sunday at 3 p.m. Highlights include Sculptures After Dark on Saturday, 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.

LIGHTS IN BLOOM

December 6 - January 3 | 6:30 p.m.

Selby Gardens, Downtown Sarasota | selby.org

Step into a tropical winter wonderland featuring more than two million lights, festive photo opportunities, activities and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy!

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!

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.

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