The Orecchiette with Pumpkin and Mushrooms are the perfect dish to welcome the autumn season.
With only 450 calories per serving, this recipe is a light option, while still maintaining a rich and enveloping flavor.
You will be able to bring this tasty dish to the table in just 40 minutes, thanks to an easy and quick preparation.
The combination of the sweetness of the pumpkin with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms creates a symphony of flavors that warms the heart.
Whether you are looking for a comforting dinner or want to impress your guests, these Orecchiette are the best choice for any occasion.
Recipe Notes
- DIFFICULTY: Easy and quick
- PRO: Tasty autumnal mix
- CONS: Balanced cooking times
- PREPARATION: 20 minutes, fast and simple
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: 450 calories per serving
- SUITABLE FOR: Autumn lunch or dinner
Notes on the recipe ingredients
A perfect combination of autumnal flavors.
- Whole Wheat Fresh Orecchiette: Holds up well to the sauces, ideal texture.
- Pumpkin: Natural sweetness, makes the dish creamy and comforting.
- Cardoncelli Mushrooms: Meaty texture, intense flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.
- Extra-virgin Olive Oil: Essential for an aromatic sauté and a glossy finish.
- Garlic: Pungent aroma, essential aromatic base for the seasoning.
- Salt and Chili Flakes: Balance sweetness and add a spicy touch to the dish.
- Oregano and Parsley: Aromatic herbs that refresh and complement the autumnal flavors.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Touch of acidity and vibrant color in the final dish.
Nutritional Values of the Autumnal Dish
This dish represents an excellent choice for those looking for a balanced and nutrient-rich meal. Here are some of its main nutritional benefits:
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Provides long-lasting energy thanks to complex carbohydrates, along with a good intake of fiber.
- Pumpkin: Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants, it contributes to eye health, skin health, and the proper functioning of the immune system.
- Porcini Mushrooms: Offer a good amount of plant-based proteins, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Source of monounsaturated fats that promote cardiovascular health.
However, with 450 calories per serving, it is important to consider this dish as part of a balanced diet. The moderate addition of salt and chili can be managed according to individual needs without compromising the taste.
Orecchiette with Pumpkin and Mushrooms: A Fall Recipe
Ingredients
- 400 g Whole Wheat Fresh Orecchiette Pasta
- 600 g Pumpkin
- 400 g Cardoncelli Mushrooms
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- little Garlic used for both the sauté and the final mince
- Salt
- Chili Pepper
- Oregano
- Parsley
- 8 Cherry Tomatoes
Instructions
- Nectar the squash and mushrooms and cut them into cubes and slices, respectively.
- Sauté them in a pan in which garlic has been browned in oil with chili peppers.
- Combine the cherry tomatoes, salt and pepper and stew for 20 minutes.
- Prepare 1 mince of a little garlic, oregano, parsley and add it to the rest at the end of cooking.
- Toss with boiled pasta on the side and serve.
Notes
Tasty variations for an autumn dish
When it comes to pasta with pumpkin and mushrooms, the possibilities for customization are endless. An interesting variation could be the addition of diced speck, which gives the dish an irresistible smoky flavor. For those who enjoy bolder flavors, replacing the oyster mushrooms with porcini or mixed forest mushrooms enriches the overall taste of the dish.
The choice of pasta can also vary: try using whole wheat tagliatelle or gnocchi for a different texture. For those who love fresh flavors, adding raw spinach leaves or chopped arugula at the end of cooking will bring a crunchy and lively note.
Finally, for those following a vegan diet, omitting the garlic and replacing extra-virgin olive oil with cashew cream will make the dish creamy without sacrificing its original goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some frequently asked questions from our readers.
What type of pasta can I use for this recipe?
You can use fresh whole wheat orecchiette pasta to achieve the best result.
How can I substitute porcini mushrooms if I can’t find them?
You can substitute porcini mushrooms with other types of mushrooms such as champignon or porcini depending on your preferences.
Can I prepare this autumn dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the main ingredients in advance such as pumpkin and mushrooms by cutting them and storing them in the refrigerator until the actual preparation of the dish.