http://ivylanedesigns.blogspot.com/2015/01/random-acts-of-kindess-martin-luther.html

Ivy Lane Designs

PASTA WITH A CREAMY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SAUCE

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup onion, diced

2 cloves minced garlic (I use the stuff in a jar from Costco)

4 heaping cups peeled and diced butternut squash

2 cups chicken stock (I used the concentrated kind in a jar, also from Costco)

1/8 teaspoon thyme

1 bay leaf

salt & pepper, to taste, being sure to taste as you go

12 oz. ham, diced (optional)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup heavy cream

2/3 lb. pasta, cooked to al dente (I used farfalle)

Directions:

Heat olive oil in large skillet. Sauté diced onion until browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and diced butternut squash and cook another 3 minutes. Add chicken stock, thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Cover and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until squash is tender. Remove bay leaf and puree in blender until completely smooth. Heat skillet.  Add diced ham and fry until browned.  Stir in ham bits, Parmesan cheese and cream. Toss with cooked pasta, serve and enjoy!