Gnocchi is a beloved Italian dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table, and when paired with the nutty sweetness of butternut squash and the earthy aroma of sage, it becomes a truly delightful culinary experience. This Butternut Squash and Sage Gnocchi recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, creating a dish that is both effortless to make and utterly delicious. So, if you’re looking to impress your family and friends with a homemade meal that’s bursting with autumnal goodness, give this recipe a try.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups plain flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 6-8 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
– 50g butter
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Step 1: Cooking the Butternut Squash
1. Preheat your oven to 200°C.
2. Place the cubed butternut squash on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 2: Making the Gnocchi Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked butternut squash until smooth.
2. Add the beaten egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and chopped sage leaves to the bowl. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. Adjust the flour if necessary until the dough is no longer sticky.
Step 3: Shaping the Gnocchi
1. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a long rope, about 2cm thick.
2. Using a knife, cut the rope into bite-sized pieces.
3. Indent each piece with a fork to create the classic gnocchi ridges.
Step 4: Cooking the Gnocchi
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate.
Step 5: Sage Butter Sauce
1. In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the remaining chopped sage leaves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Gently toss the cooked gnocchi in the sage butter sauce until well coated.
Step 6: Serving
1. Serve the Butternut Squash and Sage Gnocchi hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of extra chopped sage.
The combination of the velvety butternut squash, aromatic sage, and delicate gnocchi in a rich buttery sauce is a true celebration of autumn flavors. This recipe is a wonderful way to elevate a classic dish with seasonal ingredients, making it perfect for cosy nights in or special gatherings. Give it a go and enjoy the warm and comforting experience of homemade Butternut Squash and Sage Gnocchi.