Introduction
Butternut squash ravioli with sage butter sauce is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for a cozy autumn evening. The sweetness of the butternut squash filling pairs beautifully with the nutty brown butter and fragrant sage. This recipe offers a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own home, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re using store-bought ravioli or making your own from scratch, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Making Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce
Choosing Your Ravioli
You have two main options when it comes to the ravioli: store-bought or homemade. Both have their advantages.
- Store-bought ravioli: This is the quicker and easier option. Look for high-quality butternut squash ravioli in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Fresh pasta is always preferable to dried.
- Homemade ravioli: For a truly special dish, consider making your own ravioli from scratch. This allows you to customize the filling and pasta dough to your exact liking. There are countless recipes available online for both butternut squash filling and homemade pasta.
Ingredients for the Sage Butter Sauce
The sage butter sauce is incredibly simple, requiring just a few key ingredients:
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for best control over the saltiness of the sauce.
- Fresh Sage: Fresh sage is essential for its aromatic flavor. Avoid using dried sage, as the flavor isn’t as vibrant.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, savory element to the sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Ravioli: Cook the ravioli according to the package directions (for store-bought) or your chosen recipe (for homemade). Be careful not to overcook the ravioli, as they can become mushy.
- Prepare the Sage Butter Sauce: While the ravioli is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the Butter: Continue cooking the butter, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn the butter.
- Add the Sage: Add the fresh sage leaves to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, or until they become crispy.
- Combine and Serve: Drain the cooked ravioli and add them to the skillet with the sage butter sauce. Gently toss to coat the ravioli.
- Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. Red pepper flakes can also be added for a touch of heat.
Tips and Variations
- Adding Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add a nice crunch to the dish.
- Sweetness: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can enhance the sweetness of the butternut squash.
- Creaminess: A splash of heavy cream can make the sauce even richer and creamier.
- Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest brightens up the flavors of the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This ravioli is delicious on its own or as a side dish to roasted chicken or fish.
Conclusion
Butternut squash ravioli with sage butter sauce is a delightful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that anyone can master. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy in your own kitchen. Bon appétit!
