Pumpkin Carbonara

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Season the water generously with salt. Cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions, about 10 minutes. Drain well reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2

Meanwhile, to the pitcher of a blender add the pumpkin, chicken broth, egg, egg yolk, pecorino, nutmeg and black pepper. Puree on high until smooth.

Step 3

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and pancetta and cook, stirring often for about 5 minutes or until the pancetta is golden and crispy. Add the garlic, onions and salt to the pan and cook, stirring often, for another 5 minutes or until the onion is soft and fragrant. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and sprinkle the bare pasta with the parmesan cheese. Add 1/4 cup of pasta water and toss to coat. Add the pumpkin mixture to the pasta and cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes adding more pasta water as needed until the mixture is slightly thickened and coats the pasta. Be sure to stir and toss the pasta constantly as to not scramble the egg. Serve topped with additional parmesan, black pepper and parsley if desired.