| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins – 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 564 | 22g | 10g | 83g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 9g | 20g | 0.4g |
If I were to select one dish that holds a special place in my heart, I’d unhesitatingly choose my favorite: the Butternut Squash Pasta. The sublime convergence of sweet butternut squash, wholesome whole wheat pasta, and aromatic herbs, topped with creamy, melted parmesan results in an irresistible symphony of flavors. It’s not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience.
The Meeting of Health and Flavor
What I relish most about the Butternut Squash Pasta is how it beautifully amalgamates health and taste, making it an exemplar of nutritious gourmet cuisine. Butternut squash, the star ingredient, is laden with vitamins A and C, while whole wheat pasta delivers an excellent supply of dietary fiber. This dish does not only satiate the palate but also nurtures the body. For detailed nutritional information, you can visit Healthline‘s article on the health benefits of butternut squash.
A Symphony of International Flavors
Although my deep-seated love for sushi and seafood is a constant reminder of my Pacific Northwest roots and Japanese heritage, I am equally enthralled by the versatility of global cuisine. The Butternut Squash Pasta tears down geographical barriers, combining a staple of American fall harvest with Italian culinary influences. The result is a harmonious blend that embodies the best of both worlds. If you enjoy Italian cuisine, you might also relish preparing this spaghetti carbonara recipe from BBC Good Food.
Thanks to its hearty, comforting texture and flavor, Butternut Squash Pasta marries exceptionally well with a range of side dishes. A light green salad or a crisp bruschetta would make delightful accompaniments, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory pasta. You might also serve it with a glass of white wine to enhance the meal’s overall gastronomic appeal.
Each bite of this Butternut Squash Pasta is a gastronomic ode to my culinary philosophy – maximizing the potential of simple, wholesome ingredients while using cooking as a medium to traverse cultures. This butternut squash pasta recipe truly is a testament to the magic that unfolds when different culinary traditions intersect in a single dish.
What You’ll Need
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 1 lb whole wheat pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Method
Step One
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Carefully slice the butternut squash in halves and remove the seeds. Place the butternut squash facedown on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for roughly 40 minutes or until soft.
Step Two
While the butternut squash is roasting in the oven, cook your whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
Step Three
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until the onion becomes translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step Four
When the butternut squash is done roasting, scoop out the flesh and add it to the saucepan with the onions and garlic. Then, add the vegetable broth, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients until well combined.
Step Five
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for around 10 minutes. After the 10 minutes are up, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until it reaches a smooth texture.
Step Six
Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan and stir until the pasta is well coated in the butternut squash sauce. Continue to cook the pasta for another 2-3 minutes so it can absorb some of the sauce.
Step Seven
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it has completely melted. After the cheese has melted, add the fresh basil and parsley. Stir one final time until all the ingredients are well mixed.
Step Eight
Serve the Butternut Squash Pasta warm, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
