Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Warm up this autumn with a comforting bowl of Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta. If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, this recipe is definitely it! The combination of roasted butternut squash and fragrant sage creates a delightful symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s not just about the taste; this dish is also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

What I love most about Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is how incredibly easy it is to prepare. Whether you’re whipping up a quick meal on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a family gathering, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and sweet flavor of the butternut squash.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Seasonally inspired: Celebrate autumn with fresh ingredients that are both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients to create something special! This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta uses simple, wholesome goodies that you can easily find at your local store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta

• Fettuccine or penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried sage)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• ½ cup coconut cream (or any plant-based cream substitute)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little kick in their pasta.
• Change up the squash: Try using pumpkin instead of butternut squash for a different flavor.
• Switch the herbs: If sage isn’t your favorite, rosemary or thyme work wonderfully too!

How to Make Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread your diced butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash and gives it a lovely caramelized edge. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining; it can help adjust your sauce’s consistency later!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion until it’s translucent—this step enhances its natural sweetness. Then add minced garlic and chopped sage; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Blend Everything Together

Once your butternut squash is perfectly roasted, add it to the skillet along with vegetable broth and coconut cream. Use an immersion blender (or transfer everything carefully to a regular blender) to create a smooth sauce. This step makes sure all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add your cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently until well coated. If it seems too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Dish up generous portions of your Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta into bowls. You can top each serving with additional fresh sage or even some toasted nuts for crunch if you’d like! Sit back, relax, and enjoy each comforting bite as you savor this seasonal delight.

Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but with these simple tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose ripe butternut squash: A ripe squash will have a smooth, firm skin and a deep orange color, indicating it’s filled with sweetness and flavor that will enhance your pasta.

• Roast for maximum flavor: Roasting the butternut squash brings out its natural sugars, creating a caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of sage. Don’t skip this step!

• Use fresh sage: Fresh sage leaves provide a bright, aromatic quality that dried herbs can’t quite match. If possible, visit your local market to find an aromatic bunch.

• Don’t overcook your pasta: Al dente pasta will hold up better in the sauce and provide a delightful texture against the creamy sauce. Aim for just a few minutes less than the package instructions for perfect results.

• Save some pasta water: Reserving a cup of pasta cooking water helps adjust the creaminess of your sauce. It’s starchy and will help bind everything together if the sauce is too thick!

How to Serve Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Making your plate visually appealing can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fun ways to present this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds: These add crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing both texture and taste while providing extra nutrition.
• Grated vegan Parmesan cheese: For those looking for a cheesy finish without dairy, vegan Parmesan adds depth and creaminess to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is always a favorite alongside pasta dishes. The buttery garlic flavor pairs perfectly with savory sauces.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with seasonal greens dressed in olive oil and lemon juice adds brightness to your meal. The crispness of fresh vegetables balances out the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roasted Brussels sprouts provide a hearty side that complements the sweetness of the butternut squash.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli lightly steamed retains its crunch and provides a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors in your pasta.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish — it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite in your household!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, comforting meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing

• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and type of dish for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; just be sure to leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I use a different type of pasta for Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes such as rotini or even gluten-free options. The flavors will still shine through!

How can I make Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta vegan?

This recipe is already plant-based! To keep it creamy without dairy, simply use a plant-based cream or milk alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor if desired.

Can I add other vegetables to Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?

Certainly! This dish is versatile. Consider adding spinach, kale, or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I know when my butternut squash is fully cooked?

Your butternut squash is ready when it’s tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Roasting until caramelized adds wonderful flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas! It’s a special dish that celebrates autumn’s bounty while being nourishing and satisfying. Enjoy creating this comforting meal in your kitchen and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!