Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with our Roasted Squash Goat Cheese Pasta, a dish that promises to elevate your dining experience! This Italian-inspired recipe combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the creamy tang of goat cheese, creating a symphony of taste that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning. Ready to impress your family and friends? Read on to discover how to create this culinary masterpiece in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 medium butternut squash, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your butternut squash roasts evenly and develops a nice caramelization.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the butternut squash. Peel the squash using a vegetable peeler, then cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon, and then cube the flesh into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the oil and seasoning.
- Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
- While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Once the pasta is cooked and drained, return it to the pot. Add the roasted butternut squash and 4 oz of crumbled goat cheese to the pasta. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Gently toss everything together until the goat cheese is melted and coats the pasta and squash evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- To serve, divide the roasted squash goat cheese pasta among four plates. Sprinkle each serving with the chopped walnuts for added crunch and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious roasted squash goat cheese pasta warm, and savor the rich flavors of this Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: For optimal flavor and texture, select pasta that can hold onto the creamy sauce well, such as penne or fusilli.
- Perfectly Roast Your Squash: Ensure even roasting by cutting the butternut squash into uniform cubes. This allows for consistent cooking and caramelization, enhancing the dish's sweetness.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta cooking water! This starchy liquid is perfect for adjusting the sauce's consistency, making it creamy without being heavy.
- Enhance Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish with its aromatic flavor. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage for a unique twist.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it warm right after mixing the ingredients to ensure the goat cheese is perfectly melted and the flavors are at their peak!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg
