If you're on the hunt for a quick, delicious, and utterly satisfying vegan meal, look no further than this Easy Vegan Butternut Squash Pasta! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, dreamy dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body. With the rich flavors of roasted butternut squash and the savory kick of garlic, this pasta recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Dive into this recipe and discover how simple it is to create a wholesome meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping the butternut squash into small, uniform cubes. Mince the garlic cloves finely and set aside.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of vegetable broth over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add cubed butternut squash to the skillet with the remaining vegetable broth. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until squash is tender and easily mashed.
- Use a fork or potato masher to partially mash the butternut squash, creating a creamy texture. Stir in nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the butternut squash sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Transfer to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the creamy, nutrient-rich vegan pasta dish.
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: Opt for whole grain or gluten-free pasta to boost the nutritional value of your dish. The choice of pasta can greatly affect the overall flavor and texture, so pick one that you love!
- Perfectly Cooked Squash: Make sure to cut your butternut squash into uniform cubes for even cooking. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider roasting the squash before adding it to the skillet.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save that 1/2 cup of pasta water! It’s a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce's consistency and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor profile. A dash of lemon juice can also brighten up the dish!
- Garnish for Flair: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's freshness. You can also sprinkle some extra nutritional yeast on top for added flavor and nutrients.
- Make it a Meal: Pair this pasta with a side salad or some roasted veggies to create a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Leftover Love: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen the sauce.Enjoy cooking and savor every bite of this delightful vegan pasta dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
