Autumn in Italy: Butternut Squash Lasagna & Vanilla Fig Pear Salad (includes complimentary surprise dessert)

This Thursday at Ragna’s Table, I invite you to experience the comforting elegance of Italian autumn cooking through a vegetarian menu that celebrates seasonal vegetables, fresh herbs, and the care that comes from making everything by hand.

At the center is Butternut Squash and Mushroom Lasagna crafted with tender, fresh homemade pasta. Each delicate sheet forms layers that cradle roasted butternut squash, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant sage, all enveloped in a silky béchamel sauce. The roasted squash provides natural sweetness and a rich source of beta-carotene to support vision and immune health, while the mushrooms add depth, umami, and fiber to keep the dish satisfying yet light. The fresh pasta carries the flavors perfectly, creating a harmonious texture in every bite that is both comforting and elegant.

Paired with the lasagna is a Pear and Arugula Salad dressed in a Vanilla Fig Vinaigrette and topped with toasted walnuts. Juicy, crisp pears bring natural sweetness and vitamin C, peppery arugula contributes antioxidants and fiber, and the toasted walnuts provide healthy fats, minerals, and a satisfying crunch. The Vanilla Fig Dressing adds a subtle floral warmth and rich, fruity depth that beautifully complements the autumnal flavors of the pears and balances the creamy lasagna, creating a sophisticated contrast in every bite.

A sourdough bun rounds out the plate, with a crisp, slightly tangy crust and tender, airy crumb that offers comforting carbohydrates and fiber. It’s perfect for savoring every last drop of béchamel and roasted squash, grounding the meal with simple, wholesome pleasure.

Made with mostly organic ingredients, seasonal produce, and careful preparation, this vegetarian menu celebrates the warmth and generosity of Italian home cooking. Each element — from the layered, creamy lasagna to the bright, aromatic salad and tangy sourdough bun — comes together to create a meal that nourishes both body and spirit. It’s an invitation to slow down, savor seasonal flavors, and share the comforting pleasure of food with friends and family.

I can’t wait to cook this for you!