Savory Sundays: Pumpkin Alfredo

I have decided to try something exciting and new! Venturing from my deep roots in butter and sugar, I wanted to try a hand or two at savory dishes. I would like to introduce you to a new series aptly named "Savory Sundays" to share my love (and recipes) for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! Each Sunday I will try to present you with a tried-and-true or original recipe to add some flavor to spice up this lazy day.
I like to cook almost as much as I like to bake. If baking didn't have the sugar-laden advantage, cooking might have stood a fair chance. I prefer to cook primarily with whole foods, meaning I try to stick with fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains as much as possible. I rarely buy processed foods, so you are unlikely to find many cans or boxes in my home (or in any of these recipes).

What I cook is largely dictated by my stomach. Lately, my stomach has been craving the comforting flavors of fall. I have already churned out a few squash desserts (like this pumpkin bread pudding and butternut squash custard), but my squash cravings have yet to be sated. And so I decided it was time to bring those squash flavors to the dinner table.

This pumpkin alfredo is an autumnal twist on a traditional alfredo sauce. The puree adds a subtle hint of pumpkin to the alfredo sauce--faint enough to be noticeable, but not enough to remotely feel as if you are eating a pumpkin pie. Pumpkin and cream are an excellent match (as you well know) and cream-based sauces are no exception. If you are feeling a bit unsure about this combination, just remember that you are adding a secret serving of vegetables to your favorite pasta. And everyone likes secret vegetables.

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