Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter Sauce
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Delve into the comforting flavors of fall with this delightful butternut squash gnocchi drizzled in a rich sage butter sauce. It's a perfect dish for cozy dinners or special occasions.
This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter Sauce is a celebration of autumn flavors. The gnocchi is made from roasted butternut squash, giving it a naturally sweet taste, while the sage butter sauce adds a fragrant, earthy note that perfectly complements the dish. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The natural sweetness of butternut squash brings a unique twist to classic gnocchi.
- A fragrant sage butter sauce that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
- Comforting and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings.
About Butternut Squash Gnocchi
Butternut squash gnocchi is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dumpling, bringing warmth and a touch of sweetness to the table. The creamy texture of the butternut squash replaces the usual potato base, offering a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with rich sauces. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat, showcasing vibrant hues of orange that evoke the essence of autumn.
Making gnocchi from scratch is a rewarding experience that allows you to connect with the art of cooking. The process of mixing, kneading, and shaping the dough can be quite therapeutic. Plus, there's a special satisfaction that comes from serving homemade pasta to family and friends, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or cozy dinners.
The Role of Sage in Cooking
Sage is a wonderful herb that adds depth and complexity to numerous dishes. Its earthy, slightly peppery flavor complements rich ingredients, making it an ideal partner for the buttery sauce in this recipe. When sage is cooked, particularly in butter, it releases essential oils that enhance its aroma, creating a fragrant backdrop that elevates the entire dish.
Incorporating fresh sage into your cooking can transform simple recipes into something extraordinary. It pairs wonderfully not only with butternut squash but also with meats, grains, and even in salads. Learning to work with fresh herbs like sage will expand your culinary repertoire and bring your dishes to life.
Tips for Perfect Gnocchi
To achieve the perfect gnocchi, it's important to use the right amount of flour. Too much flour can lead to dense gnocchi, while too little can cause them to fall apart during cooking. Start with the recommended amount and adjust gradually as needed. The dough should be soft yet hold its shape when rolled.
Another key tip is to handle the dough gently. Over-kneading can make the gnocchi chewy rather than light and fluffy. When rolling out the ropes, aim for a consistent thickness to ensure even cooking. Lastly, remember to toss the gnocchi in the sage butter sauce while still hot to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
- 2 cups cooked butternut squash, mashed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Sage Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 10 fresh sage leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Make sure to use fresh butternut squash for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Gnocchi
In a large bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, egg yolk, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add in flour until a dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.
Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the water. Once they float to the surface, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Make the Sage Butter Sauce
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter is lightly browned and the sage is crispy. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sage butter, tossing to coat. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Enjoy your delicious homemade butternut squash gnocchi!
Serving Suggestions
Butternut squash gnocchi pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. The peppery greens will balance the richness of the gnocchi and sage butter sauce, creating a well-rounded meal.
For those looking to add more protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be excellent additions. These options not only complement the flavors but also enhance the dish's nutritional profile, making it a complete dinner option.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or more butter to prevent sticking. This will help retain the gnocchi's soft texture and flavor.
If you want to make gnocchi ahead of time, consider freezing them before cooking. Arrange the shaped gnocchi on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the boiling time.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, making this gnocchi not only delicious but also nutritious. Vitamin A is essential for healthy vision and immune function, while vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant. Incorporating this vegetable into your meals is an excellent way to boost your intake of essential nutrients.
Additionally, the fiber content in butternut squash aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. Pairing it with whole-grain flour can further enhance the fiber benefits, making this gnocchi a wholesome choice for those seeking a balanced diet.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use store-bought frozen gnocchi. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi and freeze them before cooking. Just make sure to dust them with flour to prevent sticking.
→ What can I substitute for sage?
You can substitute sage with thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter Sauce
Delve into the comforting flavors of fall with this delightful butternut squash gnocchi drizzled in a rich sage butter sauce. It's a perfect dish for cozy dinners or special occasions.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Gnocchi
- 2 cups cooked butternut squash, mashed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Sage Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 10 fresh sage leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, egg yolk, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add in flour until a dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth. Divide the dough into sections and roll each into a rope about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces and use a fork to create ridges.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the water. Once they float to the surface, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter is lightly browned and the sage is crispy. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sage butter, tossing to coat. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 8g