Warm roasted pumpkin, creamy goat cheese, and tender rotini tossed in a simple vinaigrette. Add crispy prosciutto if you’re feeling extra—it’s salty, crunchy, and kind of magical with the sweet-savory pumpkin vibes. Serve it warm, room temp, or straight from the fridge.
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 3 cups peeled and cubed pumpkin (or butternut squash)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
- ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 4 slices prosciutto (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and golden on the edges.
- While the pumpkin roasts, cook the rotini according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cool water, and set aside.
- (If using prosciutto) Place prosciutto slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until crispy. Let cool, then break into pieces.
- In a small jar or bowl, whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted pumpkin, goat cheese, and crispy prosciutto (if using). Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm, at room temp, or chilled—whatever the vibe calls for.