Gemelli Pasta With Roasted Pumpkin And Pancetta

Introduction

Gemelli Pasta with Roasted Pumpkin and Pancetta is a delightful combination of flavors that brings together the nuttiness of roasted pumpkin, the savory goodness of pancetta, and the unique texture of gemelli pasta. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a comforting yet sophisticated dish that will impress your family and friends. Originating from Italian cuisine, gemelli pasta, which means “twins” in Italian, is known for its twisted shape that holds sauces beautifully. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and discover how you can recreate it at home.

Ingredients

Pasta and Main Ingredients

• Gemelli pasta: 12 oz (340g)
• Pumpkin: 1 small, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
• Pancetta: 4 oz (115g), diced
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp

Additional Ingredients

• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Shallots: 2, finely chopped
• Fresh sage: 1 tbsp, chopped
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
• Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Pumpkin

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the pumpkin cubes on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and slightly caramelized. Toss halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta

1. While the pumpkin is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the gemelli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. In the same skillet with the pancetta fat, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil if needed.
2. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped shallots until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the roasted pumpkin, cooked pancetta, and fresh sage to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked gemelli pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

1. Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh sage if desired.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy your Gemelli Pasta with Roasted Pumpkin and Pancetta!

Tips and Variations

Cooking Tips

• Pumpkin: Ensure the pumpkin is cut into uniform cubes for even roasting.
• Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. It helps in adjusting the sauce consistency.
• Pancetta: For a less fatty option, you can use prosciutto or even turkey bacon.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute pancetta with smoked tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
• Different Pasta: If you can’t find gemelli pasta, use fusilli or rotini as substitutes.
• Extra Veggies: Add other roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg

Conclusion

Gemelli Pasta with Roasted Pumpkin and Pancetta is a dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors, making it a wonderful addition to your recipe repertoire. The combination of crispy pancetta, creamy sauce, and roasted pumpkin is irresistible. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences with us. Don’t forget to explore more delicious pasta dishes on easycrispyrecipes.com, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and culinary inspirations.