Pumpkin Alfredo pasta
Pumpkin Alfredo pasta is the perfect dish to bring a touch of autumn to your table. This cozy, creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of traditional Alfredo sauce with the vibrant, earthy notes of pumpkin. The result is a mouthwatering meal that feels indulgent without the added calories of heavy cream. By using pumpkin puree, you achieve a velvety texture that is both satisfying and nutritious.Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta is not only delicious but also visually appealing, showcasing the warm, inviting colors of fall. The bright orange hue of the pumpkin sauce makes it a standout on any dinner table, embodying the essence of the autumn season. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish brings a festive touch to your dining experience.One of the best aspects of Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta is its simplicity and convenience, especially for busy weeknights. If you use ready-made pumpkin puree, the preparation time is significantly reduced, making it an ideal choice for a quick and easy dinner. This pasta dish allows you to enjoy the luxurious taste of Alfredo sauce without the guilt, thanks to the healthy addition of pumpkin.Incorporating Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta into your meal rotation is a fantastic way to celebrate the flavors of fall while maintaining a balanced diet. The pumpkin puree not only enhances the creamy texture of the sauce but also adds essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. This makes Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta a wholesome option that doesn't compromise on taste.In summary, Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce and the wholesome goodness of pumpkin. Its ease of preparation and autumnal appeal make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy the cozy comfort of Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta and savor the flavors of the season with every bite.
Ingredients
- 220 g pasta of your choice
- 10 g butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 200 g cooked pumpkin puree
- 40 g parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 100 ml fresh cream
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg, freshly grated
- 100-150 ml reserved pasta cooking water
- 30 g roasted, chopped almonds
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 220 g of your preferred pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes, but be sure to check the specific instructions on your pasta packaging! I cook my pasta one minute less than the shortest cooking time adviced on the package. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 100 to 150 ml of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Caramelize the Onion: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 10 g of butter. Once the butter has melted and starts to bubble, add the finely chopped small onion. Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 8 minutes, or until it becomes soft and starts to caramelize. The onions should turn a light golden brown around the edges, enhancing their sweetness and flavor.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic clove to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Cook for another minute, stirring continuously to prevent the garlic from burning. The garlic should become fragrant, adding depth to the base of your sauce.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce: Stir in 200 g of pumpkin puree, making sure it is well combined with the onions and garlic. Then, add 40 g of grated Parmesan cheese and 100 ml of fresh cream. Stir the mixture until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with a few pinches of freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend the sauce until smooth and velvety. This step ensures that the sauce is creamy without any lumps.
- Adjust the Consistency: Gradually add 100 to 150 ml of the reserved, hot pasta water to the pumpkin Alfredo sauce, stirring constantly. This helps to loosen the sauce and achieve your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water not only thins the sauce but also helps it adhere better to the pasta.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pumpkin Alfredo sauce. Toss the pasta well to ensure each strand is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. The pasta should be well mixed and fully enveloped in the pumpkin Alfredo. Check the seasoning of the sauce and adjust if necessary.
- Serve: Arrange the Pumpkin Alfredo pasta on your serving plates. Scatter 30 g of roasted, chopped almonds over the top for an added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, to add a touch of color and freshness to the dish.
- Serve the Pumpkin Alfredo pasta immediately, while it is hot and creamy. This dish not only brings the cozy flavors of autumn to your table but also provides a nutritious and delicious meal that is perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the rich, creamy texture of the sauce with the wholesome goodness of pumpkin, making this a comforting and satisfying meal for you and your family.
Notes
You can make the dish extra special, by using amaretti biscuits instead of almonds. You crumble the biscuits over the top, giving the dish an extra luxurious touch.