BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND SAGE PASTA
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) burrernut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
12 oz (340g) pasta (your choice, sushi as fettuccine of penne)
3 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup coconut milk
1 tsp dried sage (or 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped)
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Roast the Butternut Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper
Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the squash is fork-tender and caramelized.
2. Cook the pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Saute Garlic and Sage:
In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Aff mince garlic and dried sage (or fresh sage). Saute for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
4. Add Roasted Butternut Squash:
Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet, mashing it slightly with the back of a fork.
5. Pour in Coconut Milk and Broth:
Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Stir well to combine.
Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes.
6. Blend the Sauce (Optional):
For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the butternut squash mixture until creamy. Alternatively, leave it chunky if you prefer more texture.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat it evenly with the butternut squash sauce.
8. Finish with Nutritional Yeast:
If using nutritional yeast, sprinkle it over the pasta and toss to combine. This adds a cheesy flavor to the dish.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the butternut squash and sage pasta with chopped fresh parsley.
Optionally, serve with vegan Parmesan cheese on the side.
10. Enjoy:
Serve the butternut squash and sage pasta warm, savoring the delightful combination of sweet butternut squash and aromatic sage.
Note: Feel free to customize this dish by adding sauteed spinach, toasted pine nuts, or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of freshness. This pasta dish is a celebration of seasonal flavor that will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds.
