Squash linguine

Story behind the dish

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of pasta that’s been transformed with simple, seasonal ingredients. This squash linguine recipe celebrates autumn’s bounty by highlighting the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash, paired beautifully with fragrant sage. Perfect for cozy evenings, it’s a dish that’s both hearty and light, bringing warmth to your table with minimal fuss.

Cooking with roasted squash creates a velvety sauce that beautifully coats the linguine, making each bite rich and satisfying. The crispy sage adds a delightful crunch and earthy aroma, elevating the entire dish to a memorable meal.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (350 g) butternut squash
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 12 oz (350 g) linguine pasta
• Small bunch fresh sage

Step-by-step

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chopped butternut squash and minced garlic on a baking tray. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons olive oil and toss to coat. Roast for 35-40 minutes, until the squash is tender and caramelized. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. While the squash is roasting, cook the linguine in boiling salted water according to package instructions. Drain, reserving about 1 ⅓ cups (400 ml) of the pasta water.
3. Transfer the roasted squash and garlic to a blender. Add the reserved cooking water and blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Heat a little olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the sage leaves until crispy, about 30 seconds per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
5. Pour the pureed squash sauce into the pan. Add the cooked linguine and gently toss to coat, warming everything through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with the crispy sage leaves on top for an aromatic crunch.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter or cream into the sauce before tossing with the pasta.
• Serve with grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness and flavor.

Closing thoughts

This squash linguine is a beautiful example of simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavor. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug — perfect for sharing with loved ones on crisp, cool evenings. Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy squash, fragrant sage, and perfectly al dente pasta, and let each bite remind you of the comforting embrace of seasonal cooking.