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As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crispness, the arrival of autumn brings a bounty of seasonal ingredients that inspire home cooks everywhere. This time of year is not just about cozy sweaters and pumpkin-spiced lattes; it’s also an opportunity to embrace the flavors that this rich season offers. Seasonal cooking celebrates the vibrancy of fresh produce, and one dish that perfectly encapsulates this ethos is Autumn Harvest Pasta. This delightful recipe showcases the essence of fall through a harmonious blend of ingredients like kale, pumpkin, and walnuts, making it a nourishing and comforting meal that resonates with the changing season.

Pumpkin & Kale Pesto Pasta

Embrace the flavors of fall with a comforting bowl of Autumn Harvest Pasta! This delightful recipe features vibrant ingredients like nutrient-rich kale, sweet pumpkin, and crunchy walnuts, creating a nourishing dish perfect for cozy gatherings. Not only does this pasta celebrate the essence of autumn, but it also highlights the importance of seasonal cooking. Discover how to bring health and flavor together in one simple, satisfying meal this season.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh kale, stems removed and roughly chopped

1 cup cooked pumpkin puree (can be canned or homemade)

1/2 cup walnuts, toasted for added flavor

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Juice of 1 fresh lemon

Salt and black pepper, to taste

12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or another favorite)

Additional grated Parmesan for serving (optional)

Toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish (optional for extra crunch)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.

    Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, add the chopped kale, pumpkin puree, toasted walnuts, grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast), minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse the mixture until finely chopped, but ensure it retains some texture for a more rustic pesto.

      Incorporate Olive Oil: With the food processor running, gradually drizzle in the olive oil. Continue blending until the pesto is smooth but still creamy. If the mixture feels too thick, incorporate a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

        Combine Pasta and Pesto: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta and spoon in the pumpkin and kale pesto. Gently toss the pasta with the pesto, ensuring it is evenly coated. If the dish appears dry, add more of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve a creamy texture.

          Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste your pasta and make any necessary adjustments. This could include adding more salt, a dash of black pepper, or an extra squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

            Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta generously and finish with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch. Enjoy your delicious and heartwarming Autumn Harvest Pasta!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings