Savory Butternut Squash Pasta with Crispy Sage
Delight your taste buds with this comforting Savory Butternut Squash Pasta with Crispy Sage. The creamy, roasted butternut squash pairs perfectly with al dente pasta, creating a hearty yet elegant dish that is elevated by the aromatic hints of fresh sage and toasted breadcrumbs. Ideal for a cozy lunch or a light dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The roasted squash not only adds a natural sweetness but also provides a beautiful color contrast, making it an appealing meal for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Enjoy garnished with crispy sage leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence!
4
Servings
450
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pasta
1 lb (Fusilli, penne, or your favorite type, cooked al dente)
Butternut Squash
1 large (Peeled and diced into half-inch cubes)
Fresh Sage
2 tablespoons (Chopped)
Breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (Toasted)
Garlic (optional)
1-2 cloves (Minced and sautéed)
Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons (Grated or shaved for garnish)
Olive Oil
As needed (For roasting squash and toasting breadcrumbs)
Salt and Pepper
To taste (For seasoning)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Begin by peeling and dicing the butternut squash into half-inch cubes. Toss the cubes with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3
Spread the seasoned squash evenly on a greased baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly golden.
4
Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and mix in the chopped fresh sage, allowing the herby aroma to infuse the squash as it cools slightly.
5
While the squash is roasting, prepare the breadcrumbs: heat a skillet over medium heat. If desired, add minced garlic with a drizzle of olive oil and sauté until fragrant and lightly browned. Add the breadcrumbs, and toast until golden and crispy, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
6
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
7
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the roasted butternut squash mixture, toasted breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and additional salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water or stock until you reach your desired consistency.
8
Serve the pasta warm, garnished with crispy sage leaves and shaved Parmesan cheese for an elegant finish.
Nutrition Information
17.5
Fat
62.5
Carbs
8.75
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish featured in this recipe?
The dish is Savory Butternut Squash Pasta with Crispy Sage, a comforting meal featuring roasted squash and aromatic sage.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What temperature is the oven set to for roasting?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before roasting the squash.
How long should the butternut squash roast in the oven?
Roast the squash for 15 to 25 minutes until it is tender and lightly golden.
What size should the butternut squash be cut into?
The squash should be peeled and diced into half-inch cubes.
Which types of pasta work best for this recipe?
Fusilli, penne, or your favorite type of pasta cooked al dente are recommended.
Is the Savory Butternut Squash Pasta vegetarian?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this is a vegetarian dish.
What is the purpose of reserving pasta water?
Reserved pasta water can be added to the mixture if the pasta seems too dry to reach your desired consistency.
How do you prepare the breadcrumbs for this dish?
Toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet over medium heat, optionally with minced garlic and olive oil, until they are golden and crispy.
When is the fresh sage added to the squash?
Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and mix in the chopped fresh sage to let the aroma infuse.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 8.75 grams of protein in each serving of this pasta.
How much fat is contained in a single serving?
One serving contains 17.5 grams of fat.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
Each serving provides 62.5 grams of carbohydrates.
Is garlic mandatory for this recipe?
No, garlic is an optional ingredient that can be minced and sauteed with the breadcrumbs.
How do I garnish the final dish?
Garnish the pasta with crispy sage leaves and shaved or grated Parmesan cheese.
Should I stir the squash while it is roasting?
Yes, you should stir the squash cubes halfway through the 15 to 25-minute roasting time.
What type of oil is used for roasting the squash?
Olive oil is used to toss the squash cubes before roasting.
Can I use any type of salt and pepper?
Yes, use salt and pepper to taste for both seasoning the squash and the final pasta mixture.
How much fresh sage is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh sage.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 8 main ingredients used in this recipe.
What does roasting do to the butternut squash?
Roasting adds natural sweetness and provides a beautiful color contrast to the meal.
Is this dish suitable for a light dinner?
Yes, it is described as ideal for a cozy lunch or a light dinner.
What texture should the pasta have?
The pasta should be cooked until it is al dente.
How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from burning?
Stir the breadcrumbs frequently while toasting them over medium heat to avoid burning.
How much Parmesan cheese is used?
The recipe suggests using 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish.
What type of container is used to mix the final dish?
Use a large mixing bowl to combine the drained pasta, squash, breadcrumbs, and cheese.
Can I use stock instead of pasta water?
Yes, you can use a splash of stock to adjust the consistency if the mixture is dry.
How should I prepare the garlic if using it?
The garlic should be minced and sauteed until fragrant and lightly browned before adding breadcrumbs.
What makes this dish elegant for gatherings?
The combination of creamy roasted squash, aromatic sage, and crispy breadcrumbs makes it a sophisticated and appealing meal for guests.