Vegan Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Vegan Butternut Squash Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. The roasted butternut squash creates a luscious sauce that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup canned coconut milk
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or your choice)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Vegan parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce

Transfer the roasted butternut squash to a high-speed blender. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, vegetable broth, coconut milk, nutritional yeast, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Pour the butternut squash sauce back into the skillet and heat over medium-low heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Divide the pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and vegan parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Vegan Butternut Squash Pasta

Tip 1: Roasting Squash

Ensure the butternut squash is evenly roasted by spreading it in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps achieve caramelization and enhances the flavor of the sauce.

Tip 2: Blending

Blend the sauce until completely smooth for a creamy consistency. If using a regular blender, you may need to blend in batches.

Tip 3: Adjusting Consistency

If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more vegetable broth or coconut milk until you reach the desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy but not too runny.

Tip 4: Pasta Choice

Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer. Gluten-free pasta can also be used for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Tip 5: Additional Flavor

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a bit of heat.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
Protein: 10 grams
Fat: 12 grams
Carbohydrates: 65 grams
Fiber: 8 grams
Sugar: 6 grams
Sodium: 300 mg

Conclusion

This Vegan Butternut Squash Pasta is a delightful and nutritious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making this easy and delicious pasta, and feel free to experiment with different toppings and seasonings to make it your own.