Description
This Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for fall and winter. Tender roasted butternut squash is combined with aromatic fresh sage and Parmesan cheese, creating a creamy, savory pasta that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
Pasta & Grains
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine)
Dairy
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the butternut squash.
- Roast Butternut Squash: On a baking sheet, toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the cubes evenly on the sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender and golden brown, developing a rich roasted flavor.
- Cook Pasta: While the squash roasts, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve some pasta water to help create a creamy sauce later.
- Sauté Sage: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped fresh sage briefly in olive oil—about 1 minute—until fragrant, which infuses the oil with herbaceous aroma.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted butternut squash and cooked pasta to the skillet with sage. Gently toss them together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a luscious, creamy consistency.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated, lending a savory depth. Optionally, sprinkle toasted walnuts on top for extra crunch. Serve the pasta hot as a satisfying main dish.
Notes
- You can substitute sage with fresh rosemary or thyme if preferred.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant to enhance their flavor.
- Reserve pasta water is key for creating a silky sauce without adding cream.
- For a vegan option, omit Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Make sure the butternut squash pieces are evenly sized to ensure uniform roasting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
