Fall is the perfect time to indulge in comforting dishes that warm the soul. One such dish that fits the bill is zucchette pasta. Shaped like little pumpkins, these bite-sized pasta are not only adorable but also versatile and delicious. If you’re looking for easy and satisfying fall pasta recipes, look no further. Here are some of the best zucchette pasta recipes that you can whip up in no time:
1. Creamy Pumpkin Zucchette Pasta:
Ingredients:
– 8 oz zucchette pasta
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook zucchette pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
3. Add pumpkin puree, heavy cream, dried sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook the sauce over medium heat until heated through.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and serve hot.
2. Roasted Butternut Squash Zucchette Pasta:
Ingredients:
– 8 oz zucchette pasta
– 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash cubes and sliced red onion with olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, cook zucchette pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, toast chopped walnuts until fragrant.
6. Add the roasted butternut squash and red onion to the skillet and toss with the pasta.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
3. Zucchette Pasta with Sausage and Kale:
Ingredients:
– 8 oz zucchette pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups kale, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook zucchette pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the pasta and season with salt and pepper.
7. Sprinkle grated Pecorino Romano cheese on top before serving.
Now, let’s move on to some common questions about zucchette pasta recipes:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for these recipes?
Yes, you can substitute zucchette pasta with any small or medium-sized pasta shape like farfalle or penne.
2. Are these recipes vegetarian-friendly?
The Creamy Pumpkin Zucchette Pasta and Roasted Butternut Squash Zucchette Pasta are vegetarian. However, the Zucchette Pasta with Sausage and Kale contains meat.
3. Can I add other vegetables to these recipes?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite fall vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference. Goat cheese or feta can be delicious alternatives.
5. Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
While the pasta dishes taste best when freshly prepared, you can make the sauces and roasted vegetables ahead of time and simply reheat them before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
6. Can I freeze these recipes?
It’s not recommended to freeze these recipes as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.
7. Are these recipes gluten-free?
To make these recipes gluten-free, simply substitute zucchette pasta with gluten-free pasta options available in most grocery stores.
So, embrace the flavors of fall with these easy and delightful zucchette pasta recipes. Whether you’re craving something creamy, roasted, or packed with flavors, there’s a recipe to suit every palate. Enjoy the season with these comforting dishes that bring warmth and happiness to your dinner table.