Quick Penne & Butternut Squash

Directions

1. 1
   Mix together the oil, garlic and bread crumbs and spread on a large plate.
2. 2
   Cook in microwave for 4-5 minutes on HIGH power.
3. 3
   Stir every minute until crisp and beginning to brown; set aside.
4. 4
   Dice the squash.
5. 5
   Place in a large bowl with half of the water.
6. 6
   Cover and cook on HIGH for 8-9 minutes, stirring occasionally; leave to stand for 2 minutes.
7. 7
   Place the pasta in a large bowl.
8. 8
   Add a little salt and pour boiling water to cover by 1 inch over.
9. 9
   Cover and cook on HIGH for 5 minutes, stirring once, until the pasta is just tender, but still firm to the bite.
10. 10
    Leave to stand, covered, for 1 minute before draining.
11. 11
    (Feel free to sub dry pasta and cook it traditionally).
12. 12
    Place the butter and onion in a large bowl.
13. 13
    Cover and cook on HIGH power for 3 minutes.
14. 14
    Coarsley mash the squash.
15. 15
    Add to the onion with the pasta, ham, cream, cheese, parsley and remaining water; season generously to taste and mix well.
16. 16
    Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 minutes until heated through.
17. 17
    Serve the pasta sprinkled with the crisp garlic crumbs.