Save to Pinterest A comforting, festive pasta dish featuring a velvety pumpkin sauce infused with fresh sage, perfect for holiday gatherings. Lightened up for a healthy twist without sacrificing flavor.
This recipe has become a holiday staple in my family. The creamy pumpkin sage sauce transforms a simple pasta into a comforting and healthy dish that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) whole wheat fettuccine or spaghetti
- Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 small shallots finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic minced, 400 g (1 2/3 cups) canned pure pumpkin puree (unsweetened), 240 ml (1 cup) low-sodium vegetable broth, 120 ml (1/2 cup) unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk), 60 g (1/4 cup) Greek yogurt (2% or nonfat), 10 fresh sage leaves finely chopped, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Garnish: Fresh sage leaves (optional), Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and cook for 23 minutes until softened. Add garlic and chopped sage sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Stir in pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, almond milk, nutmeg, pepper, and salt. Simmer for 57 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed and slightly thickened.
- Step 4:
- Reduce heat to low. Whisk in Greek yogurt and 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.
- Step 5:
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Warm through for 12 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Serve in bowls, garnished with extra sage and Parmesan as desired.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this dish during the holidays always brings smiles at our family table, making each gathering warm and memorable.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large skillet, whisk, chefs knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (Greek yogurt Parmesan), contains gluten (pasta), contains tree nuts if almond milk is used. For allergies use gluten-free pasta dairy-free yogurt cheese and alternative milk.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 355, Total Fat 8 g, Carbohydrates 56 g, Protein 15 g
Save to Pinterest This healthy pumpkin sage pasta is a perfect balance of creamy comfort and wholesome nutrition ideal for holiday celebrations.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Whole wheat fettuccine or spaghetti hold the sauce well and add a nutty flavor. You can also try legume-based pasta for extra protein.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use plant-based yogurt and omit Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?
Reserve some cooking water from the pasta and add it gradually to adjust the sauce's consistency as needed.
- → What can I add for extra nutrition?
Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted Brussels sprouts complement the flavors and increase the dish's nutritional value.
- → How long does preparation take?
Approximately 35 minutes total: 15 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.