Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Hazelnuts and Mint: A Cozy Fall Side Dish
Looking for a unique, flavorful side dish to elevate your fall meals? This Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Hazelnuts and Mint is packed with warm spices, a touch of sweetness, and a refreshing hint of mint. Perfectly roasted and caramelized, the pumpkin is balanced by the crunchy toasted hazelnuts and zesty lemon for a beautifully layered flavor experience. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want a cozy autumn meal, this dish is a must-try!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~150 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 850 g pumpkin (Long Island Cheese or your preferred variety)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- Zest of half a lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 210ºC (410ºF), fan-assisted, to get a nicely caramelized roast. - Prepare the Pumpkin:
- Using a large knife, cut off the top and bottom of the pumpkin, then slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Cut each half into wedges for even roasting.
- Season the Pumpkin:
Place the pumpkin wedges on a baking tray. Drizzle with maple syrup and olive oil, then sprinkle with sweet paprika, ginger powder, nutmeg, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Use your hands to toss and coat the pumpkin evenly with the seasonings. - Roast the Pumpkin:
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and beautifully caramelized. - Add the Toppings:
Once the pumpkin has cooled slightly, sprinkle it with roughly crushed hazelnuts, chopped fresh mint, and lemon zest. - Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer. Enjoy the sweet, earthy flavors with a touch of zest!
Tips for the Perfect Maple Roasted Pumpkin
- Choosing Your Pumpkin: Long Island Cheese pumpkin has a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture, but butternut squash is a great alternative if you can’t find it.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to experiment with the spices to suit your taste. Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth or a dash of chili powder for a hint of heat.
- Toasting Hazelnuts: Toasting the hazelnuts enhances their flavor. Place them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Maple Roasted Pumpkin is both simple and sophisticated, offering a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for fall. The combination of maple and spices brings out the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, while the hazelnuts add a delightful crunch. The fresh mint and lemon zest brighten the flavors, making it a standout addition to your autumn table. It’s an ideal side for holiday feasts or a delicious snack on a cozy night.
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Add this Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Hazelnuts and Mint to your recipe collection for an unforgettable fall side dish. Perfectly seasonal and full of vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Hazelnuts and Mint
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
This Maple Roasted Pumpkin with Hazelnuts and Mint is a delightful balance of earthy, sweet, and fresh flavors. The pumpkin’s natural sweetness is elevated by maple syrup and warm spices, while toasted hazelnuts add a satisfying crunch. Fresh mint and lemon zest bring a pop of freshness, making this dish as vibrant as it is delicious.
Ingredients
850 g pumpkin (Long Island Cheese or preferred variety)
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 teaspoon ginger powder
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt, to taste
1/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted
10 fresh mint leaves
Zest of half a lemon
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 210ºC (410ºF), fan-assisted.
Prepare the Pumpkin: Using a large knife, cut the top and bottom off the pumpkin. Slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Cut each half into wedges.
Season the Pumpkin: Place the pumpkin wedges on a baking tray. Add the maple syrup, olive oil, sweet paprika, ginger powder, nutmeg, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Use your hands to coat the pumpkin evenly with the seasonings.
Roast: Bake for about 30 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender and caramelized.
Add Toppings: Let the pumpkin cool slightly, then sprinkle with roughly crushed hazelnuts, chopped mint, and lemon zest.
Serve: Enjoy this dish warm as a side or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 150