Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb / 1 kg pumpkin, peeled, cut into 2.5cm / 1″ cubes (whole, unpeeled weight)
- 1 red onion, peeled, halved, then cut into 1cm / 0.4″ wedges
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp maple syrup or honey (substitute: brown sugar)
- 3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
- 1 – 1 1/2 tsp dried chili flakes, adjust to taste
Garnishes (Optional)
- 3/4 cup Danish feta (or Greek feta, or goat cheese)
- 1 large red chili (cayenne pepper), deseeded, finely minced
- 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and cube the pumpkin into 2.5cm (1-inch) pieces. Peel the red onion, halve it, and slice into 1cm (0.4-inch) wedges to ensure even roasting.
- Toss with Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin cubes, red onion wedges, and roughly chopped walnuts. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup (or honey), season with 3/4 teaspoon of cooking or kosher salt, and sprinkle 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried chili flakes. Toss everything thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Roast the Mixture: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Spread the pumpkin mixture in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Place in the oven and roast for approximately 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even caramelization. The pumpkin should be tender and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare the Garnishes: While the pumpkin roasts, deseed and finely mince the large red chili. Chop the parsley finely. Crumble the Danish (or Greek) feta cheese.
- Assemble and Serve: Once roasted, transfer the pumpkin mix to a serving dish. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, the minced red chili, and chopped parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature as a flavorful side dish or light vegetarian entrée.
Notes
- Note 1: Use whole weight of pumpkin before peeling to measure accurately.
- Note 2: Walnuts add a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor but can be substituted with pecans or almonds if preferred.
- Note 3: Maple syrup adds natural sweetness and complements the pumpkin well; honey or brown sugar are good alternatives.
- Note 4: Adjust dried chili flakes according to your preferred heat level; reduce for milder dishes or increase for extra spice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian