Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 pounds (907g) butternut squash
- 8oz (227g) dry pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (100g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs such as basil or oregano (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and cube the butternut squash into small pieces.
- Spread the cubed squash on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and golden.
- While the squash is roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil for cooking the pasta.
- Boil the pasta until al dente (firm to the bite), then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté for a minute or two until fragrant.
- Add the roasted butternut squash and heavy cream. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and parmesan cheese. Toss until well combined and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper, then add fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve immediately with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: Approx. 450 calories per serving (depending on additional toppings or oils used)
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 12g
Fiber: 5g
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy and rich, with a sweet and savory combination from the butternut squash.
- The pasta is hearty and satisfying, making it a great main dish for a meal.
- The dish can be customized with different types of pasta and additional toppings such as meats or vegetables.
User Comments:
- "This was an excellent dish! The combination of butternut squash and pasta was unexpected but delightful."
- "The creamy sauce was so rich and flavorful, paired perfectly with the pasta."
- "I added some cooked chicken to mine for extra protein, made it even more filling."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to cook the pasta to the desired texture, as overcooking can make it mushy.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste, as everyone's preference for salt and pepper may differ.
- This dish can be easily adapted to a vegetarian dish by skipping the chicken and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or olives.
