Spaghetti Pasta Recipe in Roasted Pumpkin Sauce
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with this delightful Spaghetti Pasta in Roasted Pumpkin Sauce. Combining the sweetness of roasted pumpkin with a rich tomato cream sauce, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser at your dinner table. Ideal for a cozy evening with family or friends, this vegetarian recipe pairs perfectly with a crisp Pizza Margherita and a glass of your favorite wine. Let’s dive into the details of this heartwarming meal that takes only 65 minutes from start to finish!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin) | 2 cups |
| Homemade tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Fresh cream | ½ cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 6 cloves |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup |
| Basil leaves (roughly torn) | 2 sprigs |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Spaghetti pasta (cooked) | 2 cups |
| Red chili flakes | ½ teaspoon |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese (for garnish) | as needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~600 |
| Protein | ~20g |
| Carbohydrates | ~70g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~5g |
| Total Fat | ~30g |
| Saturated Fat | ~15g |
| Cholesterol | ~80mg |
| Sodium | ~500mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Servings: 2
Instructions
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Prepare the Roasted Pumpkin Sauce: Start by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Roast the Pumpkin: Add the diced pumpkin to the saucepan, stirring occasionally. Roast the pumpkin until it softens and develops a slightly caramelized exterior, approximately 10-15 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
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Blend the Sauce: Transfer the roasted pumpkin mixture to a blender. Add the homemade tomato puree, fresh cream, salt, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Set the roasted pumpkin sauce aside for later use.
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Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add a generous teaspoon of salt to the water. Add the cooked spaghetti pasta to the boiling water and let it cook for 12-15 minutes or until al dente, stirring occasionally.
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Drain the Pasta: After the spaghetti has cooked, drain it in a colander. Quickly rinse the pasta under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta to prevent it from sticking together, ensuring every strand is coated.
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Combine the Pasta and Sauce: In a large frying pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the red chili flakes and Italian seasoning, letting them infuse for about 30 seconds. Pour in the prepared roasted pumpkin sauce and stir well to combine.
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Toss the Pasta: Add the drained spaghetti to the pan and toss gently until every strand is well-coated in the creamy pumpkin sauce. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again. Garnish with torn basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
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Serve: Plate the spaghetti and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve the Spaghetti Pasta in Roasted Pumpkin Sauce hot, alongside a slice of Pizza Margherita and a glass of wine for a delightful Italian dining experience.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your meal, consider serving the spaghetti with a refreshing side salad or a light bruschetta as an appetizer. The rich flavors of the roasted pumpkin sauce harmonize beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, adding an extra touch of elegance to your dining experience.
Cooking Tips
- For a more intense pumpkin flavor, consider using roasted pumpkin puree instead of store-bought tomato puree.
- Feel free to experiment by adding sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
- Adjust the level of spice by varying the amount of red chili flakes to suit your taste.
This Spaghetti Pasta in Roasted Pumpkin Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor the comforting essence of Italian cuisine. Enjoy the process of making it and delight in the flavors that will undoubtedly make your weekend dinners memorable!
