Roasted pumpkin and bacon pasta with lemon ricotta

Experience a mouthwatering blend of fall flavors with our Roasted Pumpkin and Bacon Pasta topped with zesty lemon ricotta. This easy-to-make dish combines roasted pumpkin, crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and pine nuts for a delightful crunch. Perfect for cozy dinners, indulge in this creamy, savory pasta that effortlessly balances hearty and light ingredients.

  • 15 Apr 2025
  • Cook time 15 min
  • Prep time 15 min
  • 4 Servings
  • 7 Ingredients

Roasted pumpkin and bacon pasta with lemon ricotta

Get ready to elevate your pasta night with this exquisite Roasted Pumpkin and Bacon Pasta with Lemon Ricotta. This dish combines the creamy sweetness of roasted pumpkin with the savory crunch of bacon, all brought together by a zingy lemon ricotta. It's a perfect medley of flavors and textures that's sure to impress your taste buds.

Ingredients:

3 cups pumpkin
360g
1/4 cup olive oil
60g
2 cups ricotta cheese
460g
2 tbsp lemon zest
30g
4 bacon strips
100g
1/3 cup pine nuts
55g
3 cups spinach
90g

Instructions:

1. Prep and Roast the Pumpkin:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and dice the pumpkin into bite-sized chunks.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the pumpkin pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the pumpkin evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the lemon zest. Mix well until the zest is evenly distributed throughout the ricotta. Set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
- While the pumpkin is roasting, cut the bacon into small pieces.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon pieces until they are crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Toast the Pine Nuts:
- In the same skillet (remove excess bacon fat if necessary), toast the pine nuts over medium heat until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove and set aside.
5. Cook the Pasta and Spinach:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- About 1 minute before the pasta is done, add the spinach to the pot to wilt it slightly.
- Drain the pasta and spinach, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
6. Combine and Serve:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and spinach with the roasted pumpkin and crispy bacon.
- Add the lemon ricotta mixture and a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce as needed. Toss everything together gently until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top.
7. Serve Immediately:
- Divide the pasta among serving plates. Enjoy your delicious roasted pumpkin and bacon pasta with lemon ricotta while it's hot!

Tips:

- For extra flavor, toss the pumpkin with some garlic powder or smoked paprika before roasting.

- Be sure to cook the bacon until it's crispy to add the perfect contrast to the creamy ricotta and tender pumpkin.

- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they are golden and fragrant to enhance their nutty flavor.

- Use fresh spinach to maintain a vibrant color and provide a nutritional boost.

- Mix the lemon zest into the ricotta just before serving to keep the citrus flavor fresh and bright.

With its vibrant flavors and delightful textures, this Roasted Pumpkin and Bacon Pasta with Lemon Ricotta is a culinary masterpiece that will leave your guests asking for more. This dish not only looks stunning but also delivers an unforgettable taste experience. Enjoy this comforting yet sophisticated pasta with friends and family for a memorable meal.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size290 grams
Energy
Calories 390kcal20%
Protein
Protein 24g17%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 15g4%
Fiber 1.30g3%
Sugar 3.41g3%
Fat
Fat 44g50%
Saturated 11g38%
Cholesterol 60mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 580ug64%
Choline 60mg11%
Vitamin B1 0.27mg23%
Vitamin B2 0.44mg34%
Vitamin B3 3.94mg25%
Vitamin B6 0.27mg16%
Vitamin B9 60ug15%
Vitamin B12 0.61ug25%
Vitamin C 16mg17%
Vitamin E 2.83mg19%
Vitamin K 120ug98%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 350mg27%
Copper, Cu 0.37mg41%
Iron, Fe 2.43mg22%
Magnesium, Mg 90mg21%
Phosphorus, P 430mg35%
Potassium, K 760mg22%
Selenium, Se 33ug59%
Sodium, Na 560mg37%
Zinc, Zn 3.54mg32%
Water
Water 200g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

More recipes

Mushroom and spinach risotto

Easy to prepare and delicious to enjoy.

24 Apr 2025

Stuffed eggplant with tomatoes and garlic

Quick, healthy, and delightfully flavorful, it's a must-try for veggie lovers.

19 Mar 2025

Grilled balsamic and soy chicken thigh

Ideal for a hassle-free weeknight dinner.

27 Feb 2025

Pumpkin gnocchi with spinach and blue cheese

Perfectly seasoned with garlic and olive oil, and finished with a touch of light sour cream, this dish is a comforting and elegant meal for any occasion.

26 Mar 2025

Lazy pad thai

Try it today.

15 Mar 2025

Chicken and leek pie

Perfect for a cozy family dinner.

21 Jan 2025

Lemon and basil spaghetti

Ready in under 30 minutes, it's a delectable way to elevate your weeknight dinners.

08 Feb 2025

Lemon & pine nut lamb patties

Try this easy-to-follow recipe for a taste of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine that’s sure to impress.

15 Mar 2025

Posts