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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the warmth and richness of autumn flavors beckon us into the kitchen. One dish that embodies the essence of this season is the Harvest Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce. This delightful recipe not only captures the spirit of fall but also offers a comforting, creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta, making it a perfect choice for cozy dinners with family and friends. With its vibrant hue and luscious texture, this sauce is sure to be a hit on your dinner table.

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

Embrace the flavors of fall with this Harvest Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce recipe. Perfect for cozy dinners, it combines the richness of pumpkin with creamy textures for a comforting dish. Easy to adapt for various dietary needs, you can make it vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Explore the health benefits of pumpkin while creating a delicious meal that brings warmth and joy to your table. Discover how to perfectly balance flavors and achieve that silky sauce for an unforgettable dining experience.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or freshly made)

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon dried sage

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick

12 ounces of your favorite pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)

Fresh parsley or sage leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but not hard). Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for later use, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a spacious skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, approximately 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.

      Create the Sauce Base: Lower the heat to simmer and incorporate the pumpkin puree into the skillet. Follow by adding the heavy cream, dried sage, ground nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if you're using it). Allow the sauce to gently simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is well combined and heated throughout.

        Add Cheese: Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and creates a creamy texture. If the sauce feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water in small increments, mixing until you achieve your desired consistency.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Carefully add the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy pumpkin sauce. Toss gently to ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

            Serve: Plate the creamy pumpkin pasta in bowls, garnishing each serving with freshly chopped parsley or sage. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy this delightful autumn-inspired meal!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 4