19 Mar 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
4 cups pumpkin
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
2 garlic cloves
Grilled pumpkin with paprika is a simple yet delicious side dish perfect for autumn. Packed with flavors from paprika and garlic, this dish is easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a healthy, flavorful dish, this recipe is sure to impress.
Instructions:
1. Prep the Pumpkin:
- Start by peeling the pumpkin and removing the seeds. Cut the pumpkin into wedges or cubes, aiming for pieces that are roughly uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, and minced garlic. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
3. Coat the Pumpkin:
- Add the pumpkin pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the pumpkin pieces well, ensuring they are evenly coated with the olive oil, paprika, and garlic mixture.
4. Preheat the Grill:
- While the pumpkin is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down until they're covered with white ash. If using a gas grill, preheat it to around 375-400°F (190-200°C).
5. Grill the Pumpkin:
- Once the grill is hot, place the pumpkin pieces directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the pumpkin is tender and has nice grill marks. Use tongs to turn the pieces halfway through cooking.
6. Check for Doneness:
- Pierce a piece of pumpkin with a fork to check if it is tender. The fork should slide in easily when the pumpkin is done. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the pieces.
7. Serve:
- Remove the grilled pumpkin from the grill and transfer it to a serving dish. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
8. Garnish (Optional):
- For an extra touch, you can garnish the grilled pumpkin with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips:
- Choose a pumpkin that is firm and free from blemishes for the best grilling results.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to ensure the pumpkin cooks evenly.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- To prevent the pumpkin from sticking to the grill, make sure the grates are well-oiled.
- Keep an eye on the pumpkin while grilling to avoid charring. Turn the pieces occasionally for even cooking.
Once grilled to perfection, the pumpkin should be tender with a slightly crispy exterior. The paprika and garlic will have infused into the pumpkin, offering a savory and aromatic experience. Serve it hot as a delightful accompaniment to any fall meal or as a standalone dish. Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfaction that comes with preparing this wholesome, seasonal delicacy.