Pumpkin Carving, Fall Decor Ideas, & Cozy Halloween Pasta Recipe

Spicy Pumpkin & Carrot Halloween Pasta 🎃

Ingredients:

• 200g spaghetti
• 100g pumpkin, cubed (or less for a subtler flavor)
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 handful cashews (adds a nice crunch and some protein)
• 1-2 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for cooking
• Pasta water (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the onions: Heat some olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s golden and caramelized – this adds a nice sweetness to balance the spice.
2. Add pumpkin and carrot: Toss in the pumpkin cubes and sliced carrot, letting them cook with the onion for 5-7 minutes. They’ll soften and caramelize for an extra cozy flavor.
3. Add garlic, cashews & soy sauce: Stir in the minced garlic, a handful of cashews, and soy sauce to add a deep, umami-rich flavor. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Simmer with pasta water: Pour in about ½ cup of your boiling pasta water. Cover with a lid and let everything simmer for 10 minutes, until the pumpkin and carrots are tender.
5. Cook the spaghetti: Boil your spaghetti according to package instructions, reserving some pasta water before draining.
6. Add spice and combine: Stir in the gochujang to add a spicy kick (adjust to your liking). If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit more pasta water. Then, toss in the cooked spaghetti, mixing until the pasta is coated in the creamy, spicy veggie sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish and serve: For extra color, sprinkle on fresh parsley or chives.