Easy Roasted Pumpkin Recipe
This Easy Roasted Pumpkin Recipe transforms fresh sugar pumpkin into tender, flavorful cubes seasoned with garlic, chili powder, and olive oil. Perfect as a healthy side dish or a versatile ingredient for autumn dishes, it requires minimal prep and a simple roasting method to bring out the pumpkin’s natural sweetness and smoky spice notes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 sugar pumpkin (2 pounds whole, 1.5 pounds cleaned)
Seasonings & Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon of another kosher salt, such as Morton)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or smoked paprika)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position an oven rack in the lowest slot. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with high-heat-resistant parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Soften the pumpkin: Wash and dry the sugar pumpkin thoroughly. Microwave the whole pumpkin on high for one minute to slightly soften it, making it easier to cut.
- Cut and clean the pumpkin: Using a very sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise, starting by slicing a sliver from the stem side to avoid cutting directly through the tough stem. Remove the pulp and seeds with a large metal spoon. For stubborn pulp, use kitchen scissors to neatly cut it away. Optionally, save the seeds for roasting later.
- Slice the pumpkin: Cut each pumpkin half into four moon-shaped slices about one inch thick, discarding the ends. Peel each slice with a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, then chop the slices into one-inch cubes.
- Toss with seasoning: Place the pumpkin cubes into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt, garlic powder, and chili powder. Toss thoroughly with a spoon or your hands to evenly coat all pieces.
- Roast pumpkin: Spread the seasoned pumpkin cubes into a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, flipping or tossing halfway through to ensure even cooking, until the pumpkin is tender and lightly caramelized.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve the roasted pumpkin immediately as a side dish, or incorporate into salads, grain bowls, or other recipes as needed.
Notes
- Using chili powder or smoked paprika can adjust the smoky spice level; adjust to taste.
- Microwaving the pumpkin briefly before cutting makes it easier and safer to handle.
- Save pumpkin seeds for roasting as a tasty snack.
- Ensure pumpkin cubes are spread in a single layer for even roasting and caramelization.
- Use olive oil for a heart-healthy fat option; butter can be substituted for richer flavor.
Keywords: roasted pumpkin, easy pumpkin recipe, autumn side dish, roasted vegetables, healthy pumpkin
Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/easy-roasted-pumpkin-recipe/
