Are you craving a comforting and flavorful meal that screams "fall"? Look no further! This recipe uses Trader Joe's amazing Autumnal Harvest Pasta Sauce as a base to create a quick, healthy, and delicious pasta dish perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. It’s one of those easy recipes that’s both satisfying and impressive, making it a winner for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels. Get ready to enjoy the best of autumn in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 jar (24 oz) Trader Joe's Autumnal Harvest Pasta Sauce
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (you can use pre-cubed squash to save time)
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: toasted pumpkin seeds, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a delicious foundation of flavor.
Step 2: Add the Butternut Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender. If using pre-cubed squash, you can reduce this cooking time.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the Trader Joe's Autumnal Harvest Pasta Sauce and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This slow simmering process really elevates the taste of the sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; this can be used to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and butternut squash. Stir gently to combine. Stir in the chopped sage and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Serve immediately, topped with crumbled goat cheese (if using) and your favorite garnishes like toasted pumpkin seeds or grated Parmesan cheese. This quick dinner is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Results:
- For a richer flavor, sauté some pancetta or Italian sausage with the onions and garlic before adding the squash.
- Feel free to experiment with other fall vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or mushrooms.
- If you don't have fresh sage, dried sage works just as well, but use a smaller amount (about 1 teaspoon).
- Don't overcook the pasta; it should be al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
Variations:
- Creamy Autumn Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Autumn Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptation: Omit the goat cheese and pancetta/sausage for a vegetarian version. Use vegan cheese alternatives if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the pasta and additions used. A general estimate for a serving with penne pasta, goat cheese, and squash would be around 400-500 calories, with moderate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator based on your specific ingredients and serving size.
This delicious and easy pasta recipe is perfect for showcasing the vibrant flavors of autumn. Enjoy this healthy meal option and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!