Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe
Description:
This Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional creamy tomato-based sauces. The rich, velvety texture and slightly sweet taste of pumpkin blend harmoniously with the depth of roasted garlic and the mild heat of red bell peppers. Perfect for pasta, ravioli, lasagna, and even drizzling over savory crepes, this sauce brings a touch of autumn to your meals, while providing a nutritious and vegetarian-friendly option for all kinds of dishes. Easy to prepare and versatile in use, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin) | 500 grams, peeled and diced |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, finely chopped |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Milk | 200 ml |
| Britannia Cream Cheese (flavored with jalapeño or peppers) | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time:
0 minutes (since it involves prepping ingredients while cooking)
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the ingredients
Start by ensuring all the ingredients are ready and at hand. Peel and dice the pumpkin, chop the garlic and red bell pepper, and measure out the milk and cream cheese. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure everything is ready to go. -
Cook the vegetables
In a wok or large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and red bell pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to release. Add the diced pumpkin along with a pinch of salt, and stir everything together to combine. -
Simmer the pumpkin
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the pumpkin and bell peppers cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is soft and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. The pumpkin should mash easily when pressed with a fork or spoon, which indicates that it’s fully cooked. -
Blend into a smooth puree
Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pan from the heat. If your blender can handle hot ingredients, carefully transfer the cooked mixture directly into it. Otherwise, let the mixture cool slightly before blending. Add the milk and cream cheese to the blender, and blend everything until smooth and creamy. -
Adjust seasoning
Once the sauce is smooth, taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper if necessary. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can also add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. -
Serve or store
The creamy pumpkin sauce is now ready to be used. Pour it over your favorite pasta, ravioli, or lasagna, or serve it with savory crepes for a delightful meal. If you have leftover sauce, store it in a glass jar or bottle and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This sauce can be reheated as needed and is perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Tips for the Best Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce:
- Flavor Variations: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the sauce. These spices complement the pumpkin’s natural sweetness and bring a cozy warmth to the dish.
- Vegan Option: To make this sauce vegan, substitute the milk with a non-dairy milk (such as almond or coconut milk) and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
- Use as a Dip: This creamy pumpkin sauce isn’t just for pasta – try it as a dipping sauce for roasted vegetables, grilled bread, or even tortilla chips for a fun and unique appetizer.
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be made in bulk and stored in the fridge or freezer for future use. It’s a great time-saver for busy evenings when you need a quick and hearty meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
This Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is a delightful and healthy twist on classic pasta sauces, offering a wonderful balance of flavors that are both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, stuffed crepes, or a vegetable lasagna, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and guests alike!
