Pumpkin and Arugula Penne with Parmesan (32 Minutes)

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Here’s a delightful dish that combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the peppery bite of fresh arugula.

The light pumpkin-based sauce coats the penne perfectly, creating a comforting yet vibrant meal.

Topped with fresh Parmesan cheese, this pasta dish is both elegant and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.

Let’s make this delicious pasta creation!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups fresh arugula
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or sage, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta (10 minutes):
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the pumpkin sauce (10 minutes):
    • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Add the pumpkin puree, vegetable or chicken broth, and heavy cream or milk to the skillet. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
    • Season the sauce with ground nutmeg, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  3. Combine the pasta and sauce (5 minutes):
    • Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the pumpkin sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
    • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Add the arugula (2 minutes):
    • Stir in the fresh arugula, allowing it to wilt slightly from the heat of the pasta and sauce.
  5. Serve and garnish (2 minutes):
    • Divide the pumpkin and arugula penne among serving plates.
    • Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or sage if desired.
    • Serve immediately, and enjoy this delicious and comforting pasta dish!

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.

If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or milk.

This pumpkin and arugula penne is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/pumpkin-and-arugula-penne-with-parmesan-32-minutes/