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Creamy Pumpkin Fettuccine with Crispy Sage and Pancetta
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces fettuccine
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces pancetta, diced
  • 8 fresh sage leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until it turns golden and crisp. Remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate.
  • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Place the sage leaves in the oil and fry for 30 to 45 seconds until they become crisp. Remove the sage and set it aside with the pancetta.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the pumpkin puree and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Add the drained fettuccine to the sauce along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Divide the pasta among four plates. Top each serving with the crispy pancetta and fried sage leaves.

Notes

Fry the sage just before serving so it stays crisp. If the sauce thickens too much after adding the pasta, add a splash more pasta water to loosen it. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet with a little extra cream to restore the texture.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Large pot, Large skillet, Colander