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Irresistible Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta Recipe Perfect for Fall

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A creamy, earthy, and flavorful pumpkin seed pesto pasta that’s perfect for cozy fall evenings. Quick, easy, and packed with nutrients, this dish is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic (roasted or raw)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, or gluten-free options)

Instructions

  1. Toast the Pumpkin Seeds: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup of raw pumpkin seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes). Set aside to cool.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of your favorite pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 1 cup spinach, 2 cloves of roasted or raw garlic, the toasted pumpkin seeds, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth, adding a splash of water if needed for consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Pesto: In the same pot used for the pasta, add the drained pasta and pesto. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce clings perfectly to the noodles.
  5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra toasted pumpkin seeds, grated Parmesan, and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

[‘Toast your pumpkin seeds for enhanced flavor.’, ‘Use fresh basil and spinach for vibrant pesto.’, ‘Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce.’, ‘Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.’, ‘Don’t overcook the pasta; keep it al dente.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seed pesto, fall pasta recipe, healthy pasta, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner recipe

Find it online: https://fuzzyforker.com/irresistible-pumpkin-seed-pesto-pasta-recipe-perfect-for-fall/