
This easy Parma ham and butternut squash pasta balances sweet roasted squash, salty cured ham, and a bright lemon-chilli dressing. It is quick enough for a weeknight but still feels fresh, colorful, and satisfying.
Peel, deseed, and cut the butternut squash into small cubes. Microwave the squash for 8 minutes, or until just tender, then spread it on a baking tray with the Parma ham. Roast at 180°C for about 10 minutes, until the squash is lightly caramelized and the ham is crisp at the edges.


While the squash roasts, whisk the lemon juice, olive oil, finely chopped chilli, and caster sugar in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves. Taste and adjust with a little extra lemon or oil if needed.


Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain. Toss the hot pasta with the roasted butternut squash, Parma ham, and lemon-chilli dressing until evenly coated. Serve immediately.


Cut the squash into small, even cubes so it cooks quickly and mixes easily through the pasta. For a pescatarian version, replace the Parma ham with cooked salmon flakes and add them at the end instead of roasting. Reserve a splash of pasta water before draining if you want the dressing to cling more smoothly.




