Pumpkin Feta Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting yet vibrant meal that brings a burst of autumnal flavors in every bite, then you absolutely need to try this Pumpkin Feta Pasta. This dish masterfully combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash pumpkin with the salty creaminess of feta cheese, brightened beautifully by fresh spinach and crunchy walnuts. It’s a simple recipe that feels cozy enough for a chilly evening but fresh and bright enough to become a new favorite anytime you want to elevate your pasta game.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building the irresistible texture, color, and flavors in your Pumpkin Feta Pasta. From the smoky roasted pumpkin to the tangy richness of feta, every component is essential.

• 360 g pasta shells: Their cup-like shape is perfect for holding all the creamy pumpkin and feta goodness.
• 1 kg butternut squash pumpkin: Roasted for natural sweetness and silky texture that defines this dish.
• 8 garlic cloves, in skins: Roasting mellows them into a buttery spreadable treat.
• 180 g feta cheese (Bulgarian or Persian preferred): Adds creamy saltiness that balances the sweet pumpkin fabulously.
• 2 big handfuls baby spinach: For a fresh, slightly earthy counterpoint and vibrant color.
• 1 handful walnuts: Adds a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor.
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: Used for roasting and stirring through for richness and silkiness.
• 8 sprigs thyme: Their fragrant earthiness perfectly complements the pumpkin’s sweetness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning for balancing all the flavors.
• Chilli flakes (optional): A little heat to brighten the dish and make your taste buds dance.

How to Make Pumpkin Feta Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Pumpkin, Garlic, and Thyme

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the butternut pumpkin cubes along with whole garlic cloves (still in their skins) and sprigs of thyme in a baking dish. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Roasting these ingredients for about 25 minutes softens the pumpkin to a luscious texture and infuses the garlic and thyme with deep, mellow flavors that are absolutely magical.

Step 2: Add the Feta to Roast

About halfway through roasting, place your block of feta right in the center of the baking dish. Drizzle the feta with more olive oil and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top to intensify the earthy aroma. Let everything roast together until the pumpkin is tender and the feta is delightfully soft and slightly golden on the edges, transforming it into a creamy marvel ready to marry the pasta perfectly.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your oven is working its magic, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta shells until al dente. Be sure to reserve a cup or so of the pasta cooking water before draining — this starchy liquid is golden for loosening your sauce and bringing silky creaminess to the final dish.

Step 4: Combine and Mash

Once the pumpkin, roasted garlic, thyme, and feta are out of the oven, peel the softened garlic cloves and mash them right back into the baking dish. Use a fork or potato masher to gently mash the roasted pumpkin and feta together, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce base. Add the baby spinach and let the residual heat wilt the leaves. Finally, stir in the drained pasta shells along with some reserved pasta water to bind everything beautifully and achieve that perfect saucy texture.

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving

Just before serving, sprinkle with chilli flakes if you love a little kick and toss on the walnuts for a fantastic crunch. This final touch ignites all the flavors and textures to make your Pumpkin Feta Pasta utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Pumpkin Feta Pasta

Garnishes

The beauty of Pumpkin Feta Pasta lies in its simplicity, but a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate it even more. Fresh thyme leaves or finely chopped parsley add a burst of herbal freshness. A drizzle of good olive oil right before serving can enhance the luscious mouthfeel. Toasted walnuts sprinkle a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish stands splendidly on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something, consider a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted seasonal vegetables or a crusty warm bread are fantastic companions, helping you soak up every last bit of that pumpkin feta sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Pumpkin Feta Pasta in individual shallow bowls garnished with a sprig of thyme or fresh herbs for color. You could also turn it into a baked pasta casserole by transferring everything into a baking dish, topping with extra crumbled feta and walnuts, and briefly broiling for a golden crust. It’s equally divine hot or at room temperature, which makes it versatile for all sorts of occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pumpkin Feta Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully over time, making it even more delicious the next day. Just keep the walnuts separate and add them fresh when reheating to preserve their crunch.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it if necessary. Allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 1 month. Note that the texture of fresh spinach and feta may change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will still shine through.

Reheating

Reheat your Pumpkin Feta Pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back the creamy texture without drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Freshly added spinach or herbs can brighten it up after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pumpkin or squash?

Absolutely! While butternut squash pumpkin is ideal for its sweetness and creamy texture, you can swap in kabocha, acorn squash, or even sugar pumpkin. Just make sure to adjust roasting times to achieve tenderness.

Is Bulgarian or Persian feta important for the recipe?

These types of feta tend to be creamier and less salty, which balances beautifully with the sweetness of the pumpkin. However, any good-quality feta you enjoy will work perfectly fine.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely. Simply substitute your pasta shells with a gluten-free variety. The flavors and textures will still hold up wonderfully!

What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I skip the chili flakes?

Yes! The chili flakes are completely optional and meant to add a gentle heat. Feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder dish—there’s plenty of flavor without the spice.

Can I add protein to make it a heartier meal?

For sure! Grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or even crispy pancetta make beautiful additions if you want to turn this into a more substantial meal without losing the recipe’s soul.

Final Thoughts

If you love food that feels like a warm hug, Pumpkin Feta Pasta is a shining example of how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Its creamy, tangy, and subtly sweet layers invite you back to the kitchen again and again. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a whirl and share it with friends who appreciate dishes that marry comfort and elegance

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