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Pumpkin Pasta with Italian Sausage and Arugula

Yields6 ServingsPrep Time10 minsCook Time30 minsTotal Time40 mins

Pumpkin is a beneficial superfood in the winter months and makes an amazing nutrient-dense dish when it becomes cold outside. Try this recipe that’s bursting with savory flavors! 

 16 oz package whole wheat rigatonifollow directions on package for cooking
 1 lb Italian sausage
 3 tbsp olive oilseparated
 1 shallotpeeled and finely diced
 5 cloves of garlicminced
 ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakesadd more if you like the heat
 15 oz can pumpkin pureedo not use pie filling
 8 oz bag of fresh arugula
 ¼ tsp dried sage
 saltto taste
 black pepperto taste
1

Cook pasta in a large pot of seasoned water (salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp. olive oil) according to directions on package. Don’t overcook – you want an al denté pasta that has a slight bite to it. Before draining pasta, reserve about 2 cups of pasta water and set aside. Once pasta is drained, place in large bowl, drizzle with 1 tbsp. olive oil, toss, and set aside.

2

In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Break into pieces and move around skillet as it cooks, about 8 minutes. Grab a large plate, and place 3 paper towels so you can pour the sausage over the top and the towels will absorb any excess oil. Set aside.

3

Add 1 tbsp of olive oil to the same skillet and sauté shallot for 2-3 minutes on medium-high heat. Add garlic and crushed red pepper. Stir frequently until ingredients are softened, about 3 minutes.

4

Add arugula to the pan and incorporate with other ingredients until wilted.

5

Turn the heat to low and add the pumpkin puree, sage, salt, and pepper. Slowly stir in pasta water until sauce has reached a creamy consistency.

6

Add sausage to the pan and incorporate.

7

Pour sauce mixture over cooked pasta and toss to incorporate. If sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water and taste for seasoning. Add salt and pepper as needed.

Nutrition Facts

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