Pumpkin pasta with goat cheese (Printable Version)

Roasted pumpkin and goat cheese combine with crispy prosciutto and tender pasta in a vibrant dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 8 oz rotini pasta

→ Vegetables

02 - 3 cups peeled and cubed pumpkin (or butternut squash)

→ Roasting

03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - Salt, to taste
05 - Black pepper, to taste
06 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

→ Cheese

07 - 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese

→ Prosciutto

08 - 4 slices prosciutto (optional)

→ Herbs

09 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

→ Vinaigrette

10 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
11 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
12 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
13 - 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
14 - Salt, to taste
15 - Black pepper, to taste

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Arrange on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and golden.
02 - Prepare rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
03 - If using, place prosciutto slices on parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes until crispy. Cool and break into pieces.
04 - Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
05 - In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, roasted pumpkin, goat cheese, and crispy prosciutto if used. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
06 - Sprinkle chopped parsley over the salad if desired. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Pumpkin can be substituted with butternut squash for variation.