Thanksgiving Pasta

DESCRIPTION

Thanksgiving Pasta brings cozy, seasonal flavors together in a unique, hearty dish. This recipe combines tender pasta with savory Italian sausage, which is perfectly complemented by the mild sweetness of sautéed fennel and the creaminess of pumpkin puree. Ricotta cheese adds a rich, velvety texture, while fresh baby spinach gives a pop of color and a touch of earthiness. The dish is seasoned with Spicelopedia® Southwest Zesty Fiesta, which infuses a bold blend of vibrant Southwestern flavors—adding a subtle kick that balances the dish’s creaminess. This pasta captures the warmth and essence of Thanksgiving, offering a satisfying, unexpected twist on traditional holiday flavors.

INGREDIENTS

Servings: 4

Italian turkey sausage links (mild or hot)	4
Avocado oil	1 tsp.
Fennel bulb, sliced (reserve fronds for garnish)	1
Penne or rigatoni pasta	½ lb.
Canned pumpkin purée	½ cup
Ricotta cheese	½ cup
Spicelopedia® Southwest Zesty Fiesta seasoning	1½ Tbsp.
Baby spinach	2 cups
Reserved pasta water	As needed
Parmesan cheese, for topping	To taste

STEPS

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Place the turkey sausage links on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the oven and slice into bite-sized rounds.
3. While the sausage is baking, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain, reserving some of the pasta water.
4. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the sliced fennel until tender.
5. Add the cooked pasta, sliced sausage, pumpkin purée, and ricotta cheese to the skillet. Stir in the Spicelopedia® Southwest Zesty Fiesta seasoning until everything is well combined.
6. Add a ladle or two of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Stir in the baby spinach and cook just until wilted.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and the reserved fennel fronds for garnish, if desired.