Roasted pumpkin

Oven-Roasted Pumpkin – a Simple and Delicious Recipe

In the fall season, pumpkin becomes the star of our meals, bringing warm flavors and a palette of vibrant colors. This oven-roasted pumpkin recipe is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile, allowing cooks to express their creativity in the kitchen. Whether used as a side dish, puree, or main ingredient in a more complex recipe, roasted pumpkin is an excellent choice. Additionally, it is a method that preserves all the flavors and nutrients, making this dish a healthy option.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1.3 kg of pumpkin (choose a fresh pumpkin without blemishes or damage)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (opt for extra virgin oil for added flavor)
- Salt (preferably sea salt or Himalayan salt)
- Freshly ground pepper
- Dried thyme (you can also experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano)

Step by step for roasted pumpkin

1. Preparing the pumpkin: Start by cutting the pumpkin into slices about 2-3 cm thick. It’s important to cut it evenly to ensure even baking. Use a sharp knife to avoid accidents.

2. Cleaning the seeds: Remove the seeds from the inside of the slices, but do not remove the skin. The skin helps maintain the shape and adds a pleasant texture.

3. Preparing the tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper, which will prevent the pumpkin from sticking and make cleanup easier.

4. Oiling the slices: Place the pumpkin slices on the prepared tray, and brush them with olive oil on both sides. The oil will not only help caramelize the pumpkin but will also add a pleasant flavor.

5. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and dried thyme over the pumpkin slices. These spices will enhance the flavor and add a wonderful taste.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the tray with pumpkin in the oven and bake the slices for 35-40 minutes, flipping them once halfway through the baking time for even browning. The pumpkin is ready when it becomes soft and tender, with slightly caramelized edges.

Serving suggestions

Roasted pumpkin is an ideal side dish for a main course like grilled meat or smoked fish. You can also turn it into a puree and use it to make fluffy pumpkin buns. Another option is to serve it with a yogurt or tahini sauce for a delicious contrast.

Delicious variations

This basic recipe is just the beginning! Here are some ideas to customize it:

- Garlic pumpkin: Add a few cloves of garlic while baking to intensify the flavor. The garlic will caramelize, bringing a sweet taste.
- Cheese pumpkin: At the end of the baking, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the pumpkin slices and leave them in the oven for another 5 minutes. The cheese will melt and add a savory note.
- Maple syrup pumpkin: If you enjoy the combination of sweet and savory, drizzle the slices with maple syrup before baking. This will add a deep and complex flavor.
- Honey and nuts pumpkin: After baking, you can drizzle the slices with honey and sprinkle toasted nuts for a crunchy texture and sweet contrast.

Nutritional information and benefits

Pumpkin is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health, and contains significant amounts of vitamin C, which supports the immune system. Additionally, pumpkin is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned pumpkin? It is recommended to use fresh pumpkin for the best results, but you can also use canned pumpkin in recipes that require pumpkin puree.

2. How can I store roasted pumpkin? Roasted pumpkin slices can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crunchy texture.

3. What drinks pair well with roasted pumpkin? It offers a pleasant contrast with a dry white wine or apple cider. You can also serve pumpkin alongside a fragrant green tea.

Whether you choose to serve it simply or experiment with various flavors, roasted pumpkin is a recipe that will delight your taste buds. Try this recipe and transform pumpkin into a delicious and healthy dish that the whole family will love!