Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the leaves begin to change, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the comforting aroma of autumn. This season, I can’t resist whipping up a delightful dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also a celebration of seasonal flavors: Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti. With its vibrant colors and the perfect balance of sweet, caramelized pumpkin, fresh spinach, and crunchy walnuts, this easy vegetarian meal is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to break free from fast food routines while keeping things healthy—ideal for those busy weeknights. Curious how this simple yet satisfying recipe comes together? Let’s dive in and create something delicious together! Why is this spaghetti recipe a must-try? Effortless Preparation: This dish is a true game-changer, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want a flavorful dinner without the fuss. Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing sweet, roasted pumpkin not only brings sweetness but also showcases fall’s finest flavors, making each bite a celebration of the season. Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with spinach and walnuts, it provides a delicious way to add essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to your diet—perfect for vegetarians wanting to stay healthy. Versatile and Customizable: Easily adjust this recipe by substituting other pumpkin varieties or even making it nut-free for your dietary needs. You can also amp up the protein with chickpeas or vegan sausage if desired! Flavor Explosion: The blend of flavors—sweet, spicy, and nutty—keeps your taste buds excited and satisfied, making it a dish that both kids and adults will love. You’ll find yourself coming back for seconds! Experience the bliss of effortless cooking with this delightful Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti, and discover how it can easily become a new favorite in your home. Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti Ingredients For the Spaghetti • Spaghetti – Choose gluten-free spaghetti if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. For the Sauce • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – This adds a rich, savory flavor while helping to sauté the vegetables perfectly. • Garlic – Finely diced to release its delightful aroma and flavor throughout the dish. • Butternut Squash/Pumpkin – The star of the dish; provides sweetness and a creamy texture, with other firm pumpkin varieties being great substitutes. • Chili Flakes – Adds a gentle heat; feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preference. For the Vegetables • Spinach – Fresh spinach contributes not just color, but also vital nutrients balancing the flavors beautifully. For Finishing Touches • Lemon – The juice and zest brighten the dish, enhancing the freshness that ties all the flavors together. • Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that bring out the best in every ingredient. • Walnuts – Chopped for that delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making your Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti truly special. With these wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a comforting dish that’s not only healthy but also a feast for the senses. Enjoy the journey of cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 220º C (430º F). This will ensure a hot, even cooking environment for your butternut squash or pumpkin. Once heated, gather your cubed pumpkin and arrange it on a baking sheet, ready for roasting. Step 2: Roast the Pumpkin Coat the cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, seasoning it generously with salt. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway through to promote even caramelization, ensuring it’s tender and golden when finished. Step 3: Sauté the Garlic While the pumpkin is roasting, heat another swirl of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over low to medium heat. Add the finely diced garlic and sauté gently for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This will infuse the oil with a fragrant aroma without burning the garlic. Step 4: Add the Chili Flakes Once the garlic is fragrant, sprinkle in the chili flakes. Stir them into the garlic for an additional 1-2 minutes while keeping an eye on the mixture. The Pumpkin, Spinach and Walnut Spaghetti will benefit from this spicy kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, reducing the cooking time by one minute to keep it al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside, awaiting its flavorful reunion with the other ingredients. Step 6: Combine with Pumpkin Once the pumpkin is perfectly roasted, remove it from the oven. In the pan with garlic and chili flakes, mash half of the pumpkin while mixing in the whole chunks, creating a creamy yet textured base for your Pumpkin, Spinach and Walnut Spaghetti. Step 7: Add Spinach and Spaghetti Now, introduce the drained spaghetti and fresh spinach to the pan. Toss everything together, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly. Then season the dish with lemon juice, salt, and freshly cracked pepper, transforming this mixture into a harmonious blend of flavors. Step 8: Serve and Garnish Plate your delightful Pumpkin, Spinach and Walnut Spaghetti immediately. Garnish with chopped walnuts and a touch of lemon zest for a fresh finish that enhances the presentation and flavor. Enjoy this comforting meal while it’s still warm! Pumpkin, Spinach and Walnut Spaghetti Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize it to suit your taste and dietary needs! Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and substitute with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without nuts. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti instead to whip up a delicious dish that everyone can enjoy. Extra Protein: Add chickpeas or sautéed vegan sausage to boost protein and make this a heartier meal. Creamy Twist: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or ricotta for a richer, creamier sauce that envelops the spaghetti beautifully. Flavor Boost: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers to elevate the dish with additional flavors and textures. Vegan Option: Use vegan butter or oil for sautéing, and ensure the pasta is entirely plant-based for a delightful vegan version. Spice It Up: Add a pinch more chili flakes or include red pepper flakes for an extra kick that warms the soul. Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top makes for an aromatic garnish that brightens up the dish. With these variations, you can cater to your family’s preferences while enjoying the delightful essence of this comforting Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my Chicken Spinach Casserole or perhaps you might enjoy the Spaghetti Squash Gratin for a different twist on flavors! Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti Gentle Garlic Cooking: Ensure garlic is sautéed on low-medium heat to prevent burning, which can create a bitter taste, ruining your Pumpkin, Spinach and Walnut Spaghetti. Adapt to Your Taste: Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your heat preference. Start with a small pinch and add more until it suits your taste. Chunky Beauty: When mashing the roasted pumpkin, aim for a mix of creamy and chunky textures. This adds a delightful mouthfeel to your dish while tying it together nicely. Uncomplicated Roasting: Make sure to stir the pumpkin halfway through roasting. This ensures even caramelization, maximizing sweetness and flavor. Lemon Zest Usage: Don’t forget the lemon zest before serving; it brightens the overall dish. Just a little adds a fresh pop, elevating the experience of indulging in your Pumpkin, Spinach and Walnut Spaghetti! Storage Tips: If you plan to make ahead, store in an airtight container and add a splash of olive oil when reheating to refresh flavors and bring back creaminess. Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can roast the pumpkin and prepare the garlic-chili mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers. The sautéed garlic and chili flakes can be kept alongside the roasted pumpkin to maintain their flavor. When you’re ready to serve, cook the spaghetti and mix it with the prepped components, adding fresh spinach just before serving to ensure it stays vibrant. With these make ahead options, you’ll have a wholesome and delicious meal that’s just as satisfying with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to restore creaminess. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the spaghetti for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, letting it cool completely first to ensure quality. Reheating: To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then heat gently on the stove with a dash of olive oil, stirring frequently until hot. Leftovers: Use leftover Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti for a quick lunch by adding fresh greens or extra veggies for added nutrition! What to Serve with Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti Elevate your dinner table with delightful pairings that complement this comforting, autumn-inspired dish. Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that enhances each bite of creamy spaghetti. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the spaghetti. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites provide a savory depth and nutty flavor that perfectly harmonizes with the sweetness of the pumpkin. Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan lends a salty, cheesy note that contrasts beautifully with the nutty walnuts and soft pumpkin. Crispy Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas are an excellent protein-packed crunchy topping, offering additional flavor and texture to your meal. Lemonade or Sparkling Water: A citrusy lemonade or a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon slices cleanses the palate and brightens up the entire dining experience. Indulge in these pairings, and create a beautifully balanced meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti Recipe FAQs What’s the best way to select ripe pumpkin? Absolutely! Look for pumpkins with a firm, smooth skin and a uniform color. Avoid pumpkins with dark spots all over, as this can indicate decay. They should feel heavy for their size and have a strong stem, which suggests freshness. How should I store leftover Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti? You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil to gently warm it back up and restore some of that creamy texture! Can I freeze Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti? Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months! Portion it into freezer-safe containers after it has cooled completely. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove. What are some common issues and how can I troubleshoot them? If your spaghetti seems too sticky, you might have overcooked it or not added enough pasta water. Ensure to boil it just until al dente and reserve some pasta water before draining. If your garlic burns, it can impart a bitter flavor. Keep the heat gentle and stir often while cooking. Is this dish suitable for those with nut allergies? Yes! If there are nut allergies, simply omit the walnuts from the Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti. You can even replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch that’s nut-free. Can I make this dish in advance? Certainly! You can prepare the roasted pumpkin and sauté the garlic and spices in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and then combine everything when you’re ready to serve, adding fresh spinach at the last moment for the best texture. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti! Delicious Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti Bliss No ratings yet A comforting and healthy Pumpkin, Spinach, and Walnut Spaghetti dish that celebrates autumn flavors. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 platesCourse: DinnerCuisine: VegetarianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Spaghetti400 g Spaghetti Choose gluten-free spaghetti if desired.For the Sauce2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil For sautéing the vegetables.2 cloves Garlic Finely diced.500 g Butternut Squash/Pumpkin Provides sweetness and creamy texture.1 tsp Chili Flakes Adjust based on taste.For the Vegetables150 g Spinach Fresh.For Finishing Touches1 tbsp Lemon Juice and zest.to taste Saltto taste Pepper100 g Walnuts Chopped. Equipment Ovenlarge panBaking SheetPot Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 220º C (430º F). Arrange cubed pumpkin on a baking sheet for roasting.Coat the cubed butternut squash with olive oil and salt. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway.In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.Add chili flakes to the garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes.Cook spaghetti in boiling water, reserving a cup of pasta water. Drain spaghetti when al dente.Mash half the roasted pumpkin and mix with the other half in the pan with garlic and chili.Add drained spaghetti and fresh spinach to the pan, tossing to combine. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.Serve immediately, garnished with walnuts and lemon zest. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure garlic is sautéed on low-medium heat to prevent burning. Adjust chili flakes as per taste preference. Mixing creamy and chunky textures of pumpkin enhances mouthfeel. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
