Hello, my name is Amira Nassar and I am thrilled to share with you this mouthwatering recipe for Delicata Squash Harvest Pasta! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be head over heels for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. Picture tender slices of delicata squash, caramelized to perfection, mingling with al dente pasta, and infused with the aromatic notes of garlic and rosemary. It’s a celebration of the bountiful harvest season, wrapped in a bowl of pure comfort. Get ready to fall in love with this autumn-inspired dish!
Amira Nassar is a passionate food enthusiast hailing from Egypt, where she grew up surrounded by the rich aromas and flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. With a background in culinary arts, she loves experimenting with traditional recipes and giving them a modern twist. When she’s not in the kitchen, Amira enjoys photography and painting, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors and textures of nature.
Amira Nassar currently resides in the United States and grew up in Egypt.
Coming from Egypt, a country known for its vibrant cuisine, I have always had a deep appreciation for food that is both nourishing and bursting with flavors. This recipe brings together my love for Middle Eastern influences and my passion for creating innovative dishes. The delicate sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the cloves of garlic and sprigs of rosemary, creating a harmonious balance that reminds me of the hearty, comforting meals of my childhood. It’s a nod to my roots while incorporating the bounty of the autumn season.
The Delicata Squash Harvest Pasta draws inspiration from Italian and Mediterranean cuisines, where both pasta and squash play starring roles. Delicata squash, also known as sweet potato squash, is not only delicious but brings a touch of elegance to any dish. Legend has it that this squash was named ‘delicata’ because of its tender, edible skin, making it perfect for roasting and sautéing. This recipe celebrates the flavors of the harvest season while adding a touch of Mediterranean flair to create a unique and unforgettable dining experience. So, grab your apron and let’s embark on a culinary journey you won’t soon forget!
What you need
Get ready to fall in love with this Delicata Squash Harvest Pasta! Bursting with vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients, this dish is the epitome of autumn comfort. Savor the sweet and nutty taste of delicata squash as it harmonizes with tantalizing notes of garlic and rosemary. First, I prepare the squash by slicing it into thin half-moons, embracing its edible skin for added goodness. As the pasta cooks to al dente perfection, the sautéed squash becomes tender and delightfully caramelized in a skillet. Then, a burst of aroma fills the kitchen as the garlic and rosemary join the party, enticing my taste buds to the fullest. Mixing it all together, I toss the pasta with the flavorsome medley, ensuring each bite is coated in savory goodness. Finally, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh parsley provide the finishing touches to this autumn delight. Get ready to indulge in the warmth and comfort of this Delicata Squash Harvest Pasta – it’s an unforgettable recipe that celebrates the bountiful flavors of the harvest season!
Ingredients:
- Delicata squash – Delicata squash is the star ingredient of this recipe, adding a sweet and nutty flavor to the dish. Its soft and edible skin makes it easy to work with. If delicata squash is not available, you can substitute with butternut squash or acorn squash.
- Pasta – Pasta provides the base for this hearty dish. You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
- Olive oil – Olive oil adds richness and helps to coat the pasta and squash evenly. If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other cooking oils like vegetable or canola oil.
- Garlic – Garlic adds a savory flavor and aroma to the dish. If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
- Rosemary – Rosemary adds a fragrant and earthy note to the pasta. If you don’t have fresh rosemary, you can substitute with dried rosemary, but use half the amount.
- Salt – Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
- Black pepper – Black pepper adds a hint of spice and warmth to the dish. Adjust the amount to suit your preference.
- Parmesan cheese – Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor to the pasta. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Fresh parsley – Fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness and brightens up the dish. You can skip the parsley if you don’t have any on hand.
Utensils:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Grater – Optional. Used for grating Parmesan cheese. If you don’t have a grater, you can buy pre-grated cheese or simply crumble it.
Delicata Squash: The Sweet and Versatile Fall Favorite
Delicata squash, with its beautiful striped skin and creamy flesh, is the perfect addition to this harvest pasta recipe. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the dish. Not only does delicata squash add a vibrant pop of color, but it also provides a good amount of fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. It’s a healthy choice to include in your autumn meals. The great thing about delicata squash is that its skin is edible, which means less prep work and more time to enjoy your meal. This often underrated squash variety is not as well-known as its counterparts like butternut or acorn squash, but once you try it, you’ll be amazed by its deliciousness!
Rosemary: Adding Depth and Aromatics to Your Pasta
Ah, rosemary, the herb that brings a touch of Mediterranean magic to this pasta dish. Just a teaspoon of this fragrant and flavorful herb can elevate your cooking to new heights. Rosemary has a distinct pine-like aroma and a slightly bitter, earthy taste. It pairs beautifully with the delicata squash, adding depth and complexity to the dish. But did you know that rosemary is not only a culinary delight but also a herb with a rich history? It has been used for centuries in Mediterranean cuisine and is believed to have various health benefits, including improving digestion and cognitive function. In moderation, rosemary can boost the flavor of your meals and add a touch of herbal elegance. So go ahead, give this underrated herb a chance to shine in this delicious Delicata Squash Harvest Pasta!
What to serve it with?
One of my favorite ways to serve this Delicata Squash Harvest Pasta is by pairing it with a simple green salad on the side. The crispness of the greens, such as arugula or mixed baby lettuce, adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta. I love how the earthy notes of the delicata squash and the bright acidity of the dressing intertwine on my taste buds. It reminds me of the traditional Mediterranean mezze, where a variety of small dishes are enjoyed together. This combination of pasta and salad reflects my love for a well-rounded meal, where each component complements and enhances the other, resulting in a truly satisfying dining experience.
Summary
I hope you’re as excited as I am to dive into this Delicata Squash Harvest Pasta! Now it’s your turn to put on your apron and invite the flavors of autumn into your kitchen. I would love to hear from you about your favorite pasta recipes or any creative variations you’ve tried with this dish. Have you ever added a twist to the sauce or experimented with different herbs and spices? Share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences in the comments below, and let’s continue this delightful culinary conversation. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and making dishes that reflect your personal tastes. So, gather your loved ones around the table, savor every bite of this comforting pasta, and let the flavors of the harvest season transport you to a place of warmth and togetherness. Happy cooking!
Here’s the recipe:
Delicata Squash Harvest Pasta
Equipment
- large pot
- Colander
- Large Skillet
- wooden spoon
- chef's knife
- cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- grater
Ingredients
- 2 Delicata squash
- 8 ounces Pasta
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Rosemary
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- for garnish Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Delicata Squash - Wash the delicata squash and pat it dry. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Slice the squash into thin half-moons, about ¼-inch thick. - If you prefer a softer texture, you can peel the delicata squash before slicing. However, keeping the skin on adds a nice visual appeal and extra nutrients to the dish.
- Cook the Pasta - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
- Sauté the Delicata Squash - Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the delicata squash slices and sauté for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add the Garlic and Rosemary - Mince the garlic cloves. Push the sautéed squash to one side of the skillet and add the garlic and rosemary to the other side. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden.
- Combine the Pasta and Squash - Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the squash, garlic, and rosemary. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated with the flavors and the squash is evenly distributed. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish - Transfer the Delicata Squash Harvest Pasta to serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy!
