Spicy Cheddar and Pumpkin Orzo with Arugula

• 1 1/2 cups dry orzo
• 1 cup pasta water
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for coating pasta
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 4 ounces grated Cheddar cheese
• 4 cups arugula leaves
• 2 tablespoons pepita seeds
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

1. In a large saucepot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo until al dente.
2. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking liquid.
3. Transfer the orzo to a large bowl, coat lightly with olive oil and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until softened and lightly browned.
6. Add the pumpkin puree, chili garlic sauce, mustard, nutmeg, and salt and stir to combine.
7. Pour in the reserved pasta water and simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes.
8. Add the grated cheddar to the sauce, stirring until evenly incorporated and melted, about 3 minutes.
9. Pour the pumpkin-cheddar sauce over the bowl of orzo and fold it in gently to combine.
10. Toss in the arugula leaves and pepita seeds.
11. Transfer the pasta to plates, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and serve warm.

orzo, pasta water, extravirgin olive oil, garlic, pumpkin puree, chili garlic, mustard, ground nutmeg, kosher salt, cheddar cheese, arugula, pepita seeds, extravirgin olive oil

Taken from www.foodandwine.com/recipes/spicy-cheddar-and-pumpkin-orzo-arugula (may not work)