Vegan Pumpkin Tahini Rigatoni

Name: Vegan Pumpkin Tahini Rigatoni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; Salt for boiling water; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/3 cup tahini; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience a delightful twist on pasta with this Vegan Pumpkin Tahini Rigatoni! Creamy tahini paired with the rich flavors of pumpkin creates a luscious sauce that's both comforting and nourishing. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with autumnal flavors that everyone will love. Elevate your plant-based meals with this hearty, nutritious recipe.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-30T05:47:50.773Z

        Why You'll Love It
        Creamy and flavorful
Healthy and nutritious
Easy to make
Perfect for fall

      

Perfect for Cozy Nights

As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting bowl of pasta. This Vegan Pumpkin Tahini Rigatoni is the ideal dish for those cozy nights in. The creamy pumpkin sauce envelops each piece of rigatoni, creating a delightful texture that is both satisfying and nourishing. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall while cozying up on the couch with a good book or movie.

In addition to its comforting qualities, this dish is an excellent way to introduce seasonal flavors into your meals. The combination of pumpkin and tahini not only offers a unique taste but also promotes a healthy lifestyle, making it suitable for everyone in the family. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking for a hearty, plant-based meal, this rigatoni recipe is sure to impress.

Nutritional Benefits

Pumpkin is more than just a seasonal ingredient; it’s a powerhouse of nutrition. Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, pumpkin can boost your immune system and help maintain healthy digestion. Combining it with tahini adds a nutty flavor along with essential fats and protein, making this dish both delicious and incredibly nutritious.

Together, these ingredients create a well-balanced meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also provides essential nutrients to fuel your day. The addition of garlic enhances the dish’s flavor while offering immune-boosting properties, making this rigatoni not only a great choice for taste but health as well.

Simple Preparation

One of the standout features of this Vegan Pumpkin Tahini Rigatoni is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in less than 30 minutes. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you still want something home-cooked and wholesome. Preparing your own meals with fresh, plant-based ingredients means you can be confident in what you’re eating.

Moreover, this recipe allows for flexibility; you can easily adjust the seasoning or add additional vegetables to the sauce for extra nutrition. Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for an additional layer of flavor, making it a truly personalized dish that celebrates the fall season.

Ingredients

For the Rigatoni

12 oz rigatoni pasta
Salt for boiling water

For the Sauce

1 cup pumpkin puree
1/3 cup tahini
1/2 cup vegetable broth
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon nutritional yeast
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Combine the ingredients wisely to create a delicious sauce.

Steps

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the pumpkin puree, tahini, vegetable broth, and nutritional yeast.

Mix well and cook for about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, mixing until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Vegan Pumpkin Tahini Rigatoni!

Cooking Tips

To ensure your rigatoni is cooked to perfection, be careful not to overcook it. The pasta should be al dente to maintain its texture and hold up against the creamy sauce. Remember to reserve some pasta water, as this can be added to the sauce if it becomes too thick, giving the final dish the right consistency.

For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the pumpkin before adding it to the sauce. This caramelization can enhance the natural sweetness of the pumpkin and provide an extra layer of richness to your dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Vegan Pumpkin Tahini Rigatoni with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. The freshness of the salad will provide a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta, making each bite more enjoyable.

For those who enjoy extra indulgence, consider topping the dish with roasted seeds or nuts for some added crunch. A sprinkle of chili flakes can also give your dish a delightful kick, elevating the overall flavor experience.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to bring back the creaminess of the sauce.

For longer storage, consider freezing your prepared pasta. Simply cook the rigatoni, mix it with the sauce, and allow it to cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work well!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.