Butternut squash gnocchi is a delightful take on traditional pasta dishes, offering a hearty yet comforting meal. This recipe combines the rich flavor of butternut squash with a creamy garlic sage butter sauce over fresh wilted spinach for a complete and satisfying dish. Perfect for cozy autumn evenings or elegant dinner parties.
### Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 300g gnocchi dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
### Equipment:
- Large pot
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin or gnocchi cutter
- Skillet or large pan
### Steps:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash Gnocchi
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Cook the Squash:** Cut the butternut squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- *Keywords*: butternut squash, baking
3. **Bake for 45 Minutes:** Bake until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. **Cool and Scoop Out Flesh:** Let cool slightly, then scoop out the flesh from the skin into a bowl.
#### Step 2: Make the Gnocchi Dough
1. **Mix Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, combine butternut squash puree (about 3 cups), 2 cups of flour, salt, and pepper.
2. **Form the Dough Balls:** Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
3. **Shape the Gnocchi:** Use a rolling pin or gnocchi cutter to flatten each ball slightly. Alternatively, use a fork to create a ridged texture.
#### Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
1. **Boil Water:** Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. **Cook Gnocchi:** Carefully drop the gnocchi into boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they rise to the surface.
- *Keywords*: cooking time, water
#### Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
1. **Sauté Garlic and Sage:** In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped sage; cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- *Keywords*: sautéing, garlic, sage
#### Step 5: Wilt Spinach
1. **Add Spinach:** Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet with the butter mixture. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 3-4 minutes.
2. **Season and Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
### Assembly:
1. **Plate the Gnocchi:** Arrange cooked gnocchi on a serving plate or platter.
2. **Drizzle Sauce:** Spoon the garlic sage butter sauce over the top of the gnocchi, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
3. **Top with Spinach:** Garnish with wilted spinach leaves for added color and flavor.
### Tips:
- *SEO Keyword:* Fresh ingredients
- Ensure your butternut squash is fully cooked before mashing to achieve smooth gnocchi dough.
- *SEO Keyword:* Cooking techniques
Enjoy this warming dish that combines the earthy flavors of butternut squash with a rich, buttery sauce and fresh spinach! This recipe not only satisfies but also impresses at any dinner table.