Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience - a plate that dances with golden-caramelized butternut squash, succulent prawns, and perfectly cooked rigatoni. This Italian-inspired recipe isn't just a meal; it's a journey through rich flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of Italy. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises to elevate your dinner game with its elegant simplicity and mouthwatering combination of ingredients.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 small butternut squash, diced
- 1 lb prawns, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the butternut squash by washing thoroughly, then carefully cutting it into small, uniform 1/2-inch cubes. Remove the seeds and skin before dicing.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced butternut squash and sauté for 5-6 minutes until the edges begin to caramelize and the squash becomes tender.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Season the prawns with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet with the squash and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with the squash and prawns.
- Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove from heat and plate the pasta. Generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select firm, vibrant butternut squash and high-quality, fresh prawns for the best flavor profile.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water - its starchy goodness helps create a silky, cohesive sauce.
- Caramelization is Key: When sautéing squash, let it develop those beautiful golden-brown edges for enhanced sweetness.
- Prawn Precision: Cook prawns just until they turn pink to prevent rubbery texture - 2-3 minutes per side is perfect.
- Timing Matters: Start cooking squash before boiling pasta to ensure everything comes together hot and fresh.
- Cheese Upgrade: Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor - pre-grated cheese can't compare!
- Quick Serving: This dish is best enjoyed immediately while hot and at its peak flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 180mg
