This gemelli pasta with roasted pumpkin and crispy pancetta is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for fall. The sweetness of the roasted pumpkin pairs perfectly with the salty pancetta, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. It's a simple yet impressive dish that will surely become one of your favorites.
Ingredients
- 1 small sugar pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 8 oz gemelli pasta
- 4 oz pancetta, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Toss the pumpkin cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- Cook the gemelli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the roasted pumpkin and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Interesting Facts
Gemelli pasta is a type of pasta that is twisted into small, double-helix shapes, perfect for trapping sauce and flavors.
Pancetta is an Italian bacon that is cured with salt and spices, adding a rich and savory flavor to dishes.
Roasting the pumpkin intensifies its sweetness and brings out its natural flavors, making it a perfect pairing with the salty pancetta.