Description
This Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta is a comforting and flavorful vegetarian dish combining tender, caramelized butternut squash with aromatic fresh sage, tossed with al dente pasta and finished with grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe highlights simple ingredients roasted to perfection and blended with fresh herbs for a rich, creamy texture without heavy cream.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
Pasta & Cheese
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Oils & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat evenly. Spread the squash in a single layer for uniform roasting.
- Roast Squash: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the squash for about 25-30 minutes, until it becomes tender and develops a golden brown, caramelized exterior.
- Cook Pasta: While the squash roasts, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve a cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta well.
- Sauté Sage: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté the chopped fresh sage for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned, to release its aroma.
- Toss Pasta and Squash: Add the roasted butternut squash and cooked pasta to the skillet with the sage. Toss gently together, gradually adding the reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy, cohesive texture.
- Finish with Cheese and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until everything is evenly combined and creamy. Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnished with toasted walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with toasted pine nuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
- For a vegan version, replace Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast.
- If butternut squash isn’t available, try using pumpkin or sweet potato for a similar taste and texture.
- Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps in binding the sauce and pasta for better creaminess.