Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Pasta

Craving a dinner that’s both quick to make and packed with flavor? Look no further! Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Pasta is your answer. This dish brilliantly combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the tangy saltiness of feta cheese, all tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s healthy, satisfying, and ready in under an hour. As a busy parent, I’m always searching for meals that fit my schedule without sacrificing taste or nutrition, and this recipe has become a family favorite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

My grandmother used to make a simpler version of this dish every fall, using the squash we grew in her garden. The memory of its warm, familiar scent wafting from her kitchen is something I cherish. So, I decided to tweak her recipe, adding a creamy feta twist to create the **Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Pasta** we enjoy today. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of nostalgia and a connection to my heritage. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for a cozy weekend gathering.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Butternut Squash:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 4 cups)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, dried sage, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
6. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
8. Toss everything together gently. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy your Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Pasta!

Expert Tips for Best Results

For the ultimate Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Pasta, start with a perfectly ripe butternut squash. It should feel heavy for its size and have a deep, even color. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting; this ensures the squash caramelizes properly instead of steaming. The type of pasta you use can also impact the final dish. Shorter shapes like penne or rigatoni work best because they capture the sauce and feta crumbles effectively. Always remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water is a secret ingredient that helps create a creamy, cohesive sauce and prevents the pasta from drying out. Feta cheese can be quite salty, so taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Lastly, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors and add a touch of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Pasta is delicious on its own, making it a perfect weeknight meal. However, it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad. Consider a mix of baby spinach, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries with a light vinaigrette. To elevate the protein content, you might serve the pasta alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds over the pasta adds a delightful crunch and reinforces the squash flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider pan-frying some halloumi cheese and adding it to the dish for a salty and savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the squash. Leftovers also heat up nicely, making this recipe ideal for meal prepping. Consider packing it for lunch the next day or enjoying it as a quick and satisfying dinner again. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of sweetness.

Conclusion

Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors combined in a simple yet elegant dish. The creamy sweetness of the roasted butternut squash perfectly complements the salty tang of the feta, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests and can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a comforting autumn dish or a healthy and flavorful dinner option, this **Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Pasta is sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try and experience the delightful combination of flavors for yourself!