Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a creamy, dreamy twist? Dive into the delightful world of Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce with Kale and Pasta, where the rich flavors of autumn meet the comforting essence of Italian cuisine. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome way to indulge your taste buds. Imagine twirling your fork through silky smooth sauce, vibrant greens, and perfectly cooked pasta—all ready in just 30 minutes! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unique recipe that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for cooking the pasta.
- While the water heats, wash and finely chop the kale, removing any tough stems. Set aside.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely, preparing them for sautéing.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, approximately 1-2 minutes.
- Add the pumpkin puree to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and create a smooth base.
- Pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to create a creamy, uniform sauce.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
- Add the chopped kale to the sauce, cooking for 2-3 minutes until it begins to wilt and become tender.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the pumpkin alfredo sauce.
- Gently toss the pasta to ensure it is completely coated with the sauce and kale.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While any pasta works well, consider using fettuccine or penne for better sauce adherence. Their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully!
- Fresh Kale: Opt for fresh kale over pre-packaged to ensure maximum flavor and nutrition. Remove tough stems for a more tender bite.
- Pumpkin Puree: For a richer flavor, use homemade pumpkin puree if you have the time. Otherwise, canned puree works perfectly—just ensure it’s 100% pumpkin with no added sugars.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with vegetable broth or milk. This will still give you a creamy texture without being overly rich.
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Taste your sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors of the pumpkin and cheese.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving can add a burst of color and freshness to your dish.
- Leftover Sauce: If you have extra sauce, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
- Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 90mg
