If you’re looking for a dish that brings together sweet, spicy, and savory in one beautiful burst of flavor, the Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Chili and Feta Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe transforms simple pumpkin into an irresistible centerpiece with the warmth of maple syrup, a kick of chili flakes, and a creamy touch of salty feta. It’s a perfect way to celebrate cozy fall meals or brighten up any dinner table with its vivid colors and bold tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a close-up view of large orange sweet potato cubes and purple-red onion wedges mixed together, placed on a white marbled surface. The sweet potato cubes are smooth and shiny, with about two layers of visible size, while the onion wedges reveal clear purple layers with white edges. A golden liquid, likely olive oil, is being poured over the vegetables, adding a glossy texture and slight shine to the pieces. The whole scene is bright and colorful, emphasizing the vibrant orange and purple tones. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of these ingredients — each one plays a vital role in crafting the vibrant and balanced flavors of this dish. From the natural sweetness of pumpkin and maple syrup to the tangy punch of feta and the smoky heat from chili flakes, every element is essential for creating an unforgettable meal.

Pumpkin: Use 2 pounds (1 kilogram) peeled and cut into 2.5 cm cubes for perfect roasting and tenderness.
Red onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when roasted alongside the pumpkin.
Walnuts: Roughly chopped to provide a lovely crunch and earthy flavor contrast.
Olive oil: Helps crisp the pumpkin and caramelize the edges while keeping everything moist.
Maple syrup: Three tablespoons to infuse the pumpkin with warm, natural sweetness.
Cooking salt/kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Dried chili flakes: Adjust between 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons depending on your preferred level of heat.
Danish or Greek feta: Salty and creamy, to crumble on top for a luxurious finish (optional but highly recommended).
Fresh red chili: Finely minced, optional for those who want a fresh bright chili note.
Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch as a garnish.

How to Make Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Chili and Feta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by peeling your pumpkin and cutting it into even 2.5 cm (1 inch) chunks to ensure uniform roasting. Peel and halve the red onion, then slice it into wedges about 1 cm thick. Roughly chop the walnuts to a bite-friendly size. Having everything ready and prepped makes the cooking flow smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Toss Pumpkin, Onion, and Walnuts

Place the pumpkin cubes, red onion wedges, and chopped walnuts in a large bowl. Drizzle over the 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 3 tablespoons of maple syrup. Sprinkle the salt and chili flakes evenly across and toss everything together gently but thoroughly, coating each piece in this flavorful mixture.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment for easy cleanup. Roast in a preheated oven at 200°C (about 400°F) for 30 to 40 minutes, turning once halfway through. You want the pumpkin to tenderize beautifully while the edges caramelize into a lightly toasted golden hue.

Step 4: Add Feta and Finish

Once roasted, transfer the pumpkin mixture to a serving dish and crumble the Danish or Greek feta over the top. If you love a bit of extra chili freshness, sprinkle the finely minced red chili and parsley for a pop of color and zing.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Chili and Feta Recipe

The image shows a baking tray filled with roasted butternut squash cubes that are golden orange with slightly darkened edges. Scattered among the squash are caramelized red onion wedges, their colors ranging from deep purple to translucent light purple. Small pieces of toasted walnuts add a rough texture and a light brown color contrast. The background is a white marbled baking tray surface. The vegetables and nuts are spread evenly across the tray with a rustic, slightly shiny finish from roasting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a handful of freshly chopped parsley for brightness and extra color. Additional crumbled feta can be added for creaminess, while a light sprinkle of fresh chili will boost the heat if you desire.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple grains like quinoa or couscous, which soak up the caramelized maple and chili flavors. It also works well alongside roasted meats or as a hearty vegetarian main when paired with warm crusty bread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Chili and Feta Recipe over a bed of steamed greens or tossing it into a warm salad bowl with mixed leaves and toasted seeds. For a striking presentation, serve in roasted pumpkin shells or alongside a dollop of creamy yogurt to mellow the spice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen, making the dish even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This recipe can be frozen, although the texture of the pumpkin might become a little softer after thawing. Place in a freezer-safe container and enjoy within two months for best results.

Reheating

For reheating, it’s best to warm this dish gently in the oven or on the stovetop to refresh the roasted texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crisp edges and flavors at their best.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash instead of pumpkin?

Absolutely! Butternut squash or kabocha are excellent alternatives that roast similarly and bring their own unique sweetness and texture to the dish.

Is it okay to substitute honey for maple syrup?

Yes, honey is a great substitute and will provide the same beautiful caramelization and sweetness, although the flavor will be slightly different.

How spicy is this dish with 1 1/2 teaspoons of chili flakes?

It has a noticeable but balanced kick, allowing the sweetness of the pumpkin to shine while giving a pleasant warmth. Adjust to taste if you prefer milder or hotter.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Definitely! Simply omit the feta or replace it with a vegan cheese substitute to keep the creamy element without dairy.

Why are walnuts used in this recipe?

Walnuts add a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the soft sweetness of the pumpkin and the salty, tangy feta beautifully.

Final Thoughts

You have to try the Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Chili and Feta Recipe if you want a dish that feels like a warm hug with every bite. It’s one of those recipes that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and stunning to serve, making it a fantastic addition to your seasonal cooking repertoire. Once you share this with your friends and family, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite too!

Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Chili and Feta Recipe