The cool autumn breeze carries the aroma of fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, cravings for comforting, hearty meals increase. Pasta is a perfect dish for cozy fall evenings, as it’s warming, satisfying and versatile.
A classic like pumpkin pasta hits the spot on a chilly fall night. Blend pumpkin puree, parmesan cheese, nutmeg and parsley into cooked pasta such as penne or rigatoni. Toss with sautéed spinach and top with toasted pumpkin seeds for some crunch. The creamy pumpkin sauce clings to the pasta and spinach, infusing it with the flavor of fall.
Butternut squash pasta is another comforting option for fall. Sauté cubed butternut squash with garlic and fresh sage until tender. Add cooked pasta such as linguine or fettuccine and stir to coat, then finish with parmesan cheese, lemon juice and black pepper. The nutty, earthy flavor of butternut squash pairs perfectly with the tang of lemon and savory parmesan cheese.
For heartier fare, consider a pasta dish with Italian sausage and mushrooms. Cook pasta such as farfalle or campanelle, then sauté spicy Italian sausage with cremini mushrooms, rosemary and red wine. Add the sausage and mushrooms to the pasta along with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. The meaty sausage, earthy mushrooms and aromatic rosemary transport you to a cozy Tuscan kitchen.
Apples, cranberries and maple syrup give pasta a sweet and tangy kick for fall. Make a sauce of sautéed apples, dried cranberries, maple syrup and cider vinegar and toss with pasta such as rotini, fusilli or radiatore. Top with crumbled bacon, goat cheese and chopped walnuts for a balance of sweet and savory flavors. The tart cranberries offset the sweetness of the apples and maple syrup.
Fall-inspired pasta dishes are the perfect comfort food when the weather turns cool. Hearty, creamy and full of seasonal flavors like pumpkin, butternut squash, mushrooms and apples, pasta is ideal for cozy evenings at home. Pick your favorite fall ingredients and stir up a pot of autumnal pasta to enjoy the tastes of the season.