Penne with Roasted Butternut Squash
Try this Penne with Roasted Butternut Squash recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Penne with Roasted Butternut Squash recipe, or contribute your own.
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 3 t olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- for the pasta:
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 c yellow onion diced
- for the roasted squash:
- 3 c cubed butternut squash
- 1-2 t olive oil
- 2 slices bacon sliced crosswise
- 1 c white mushrooms sliced
- 4 c fresh spinach
- 1-8 oz box penne pasta (i used chickpea pasta by banza) cooked per instructions on package, drained and tossed with olive oil
- 1/2 c crumbled goat cheese
- 8-10 basil leaves rolled and sliced into strips
- 1/3 c candied pumpkin seeds (pecans or walnuts would wor
- Carbohydrate 29.6008347962868 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 41.528487379943 g
- Fiber 6.93647223138579 g
- Protein 8.87075714091089 g
- Saturated Fat 5.80056822121065 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (413g)
- Sodium 109.798783659256 mg
- Sugar 22.664362564901 g
- Trans Fat 1.46932300484557 g
- Calories 501 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic, and spread evenly onto parchment paper.
- Roast for 25-35 minutes, until toothpick inserts easily.
- Meanwhile, heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- When oil is hot, add onion, garlic, mushrooms, and bacon. Saute for 5-6 minutes, until bacon is cooked.
- Add spinach to saute pan, and cook until wilted. About 3-4 minutes.
- Toss with roasted squash, penne pasta, goat cheese, basil, and pumpkin seeds.
- Serve immediately.
My Weeknight Delight: Penne with Roasted Butternut Squash
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. But trust me, this Penne with Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is a lifesaver! It’s quick, it’s easy, and it's surprisingly elegant – perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend dinner with the family. I’ve been experimenting with different pasta shapes and vegetable combinations lately, searching for that perfect balance of flavor and convenience. This recipe truly hits the mark. The sweetness of the roasted butternut squash perfectly complements the savory bacon and earthy mushrooms, while the creamy goat cheese adds a touch of indulgence.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. I often swap out ingredients based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I use pecans or walnuts instead of candied pumpkin seeds – they add a lovely crunch. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, too. Feta or ricotta would also be delicious additions. And don't worry about sticking strictly to the recipe; it's designed to be adaptable to your needs and preferences. One night I might use regular penne, another I might opt for a healthier alternative like chickpea pasta. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! This week I used chickpea pasta and let me tell you, it really holds up to the flavors of this dish. The texture was surprisingly good, it did not overpower the other flavors, and I loved that this dish is gluten free without compromising the taste.
The preparation is straightforward. Roasting the butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness and creates a delightful caramelization. While the squash is roasting, I quickly sauté the onions, mushrooms, bacon, and spinach—a process that takes just a few minutes. Finally, everything is tossed together with the cooked pasta, goat cheese, basil, and pumpkin seeds. The whole meal is ready in under an hour, which is music to my ears after a long day at the office. The aroma alone is enough to make the family eager to get to the table. And cleaning up is a breeze, which is a huge bonus for any busy cook.
This recipe isn't just a quick and easy meal; it’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients and simple flavors. The vibrant colors of the butternut squash, the earthy tones of the mushrooms, and the bright green of the spinach create a visually appealing dish that's as satisfying to look at as it is to eat. It’s a dish that I’m proud to serve to my family and friends, knowing that it’s both healthy and delicious. This recipe has become a staple in our weekly meal rotation, and I highly recommend giving it a try. It's a keeper for sure! Next time you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight dinner, this Penne with Roasted Butternut Squash is the perfect choice. You won't be disappointed!
Beyond the Recipe: This dish is a fantastic starting point for exploring your own culinary creativity. Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the sauté. Experiment with different herbs to find your favorite flavor combinations. And don't be afraid to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. The beauty of cooking is in the personal touch, the ability to create something delicious and unique. This recipe empowers you to do just that. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy the process as much as the results. Because cooking should be fun, enjoyable, and a rewarding experience.
Tips and Tricks: For the best results, make sure your butternut squash is properly cubed. Consistent sizing ensures even roasting. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut butternut squash from the grocery store. Also, don't be afraid to adjust the amount of goat cheese to your liking. Some prefer a richer, creamier dish, while others prefer a lighter touch. And finally, garnish generously with fresh basil for a pop of freshness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions: This dish is wonderful on its own, but it can also be served with a side salad or crusty bread. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the richness of the pasta perfectly. Or, if you're feeling extra indulgent, serve it with a side of garlic bread for dipping into the creamy goat cheese sauce. Regardless of how you choose to serve it, this Penne with Roasted Butternut Squash is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
