Roasted pumpkin and garlic

Roasted pumpkin and garlic combine the sweetness of pumpkin with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, resulting in a delicious and versatile dish. This straightforward recipe involves roasting cubed pumpkin with minced garlic until tender and caramelized, making it ideal as a side or main course.

16 Jan 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

8 cups pumpkin
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp olive oil

Roasted pumpkin and garlic is a simple, yet flavorful dish that can make a great side or even a main course. The natural sweetness of the pumpkin combined with the robust flavor of roasted garlic creates a savory and delicious combination. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for those who want to enjoy the rich taste of fall.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This allows the oven to get hot enough to roast the pumpkin evenly and give it a nice caramelized texture.

2. Prepare the Pumpkin:
- If using a whole pumpkin, begin by cutting it in half and removing the seeds and strings with a spoon.
- Peel the pumpkin and cut the flesh into approximately 1-inch cubes. You should have around 8 cups of cubed pumpkin.

3. Mince the Garlic:
- Peel the garlic cloves.
- Mince the garlic finely, or use a garlic press if you prefer.

4. Season the Pumpkin:
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin cubes and minced garlic.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the pumpkin and garlic mixture.
- Toss everything together until the pumpkin is evenly coated with the oil and garlic.
- Optionally, season with salt and pepper for added flavor.

5. Roast the Pumpkin:
- Spread the pumpkin mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Use a parchment paper or silicone baking mat if desired for easy cleanup.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. Turn the pumpkin cubes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.

6. Check for Doneness:
- Test with a fork to ensure the pumpkin is tender. The fork should easily pierce through the pumpkin cubes.

7. Serve:
- Remove the roasted pumpkin and garlic from the oven.
- Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy as a side dish or incorporate into salads, pastas, or other recipes.

Roasting pumpkin and garlic is an excellent way to bring out their natural flavors and create a dish that is both healthy and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a tasty and nutritious addition to any meal. Enjoy your roasted pumpkin and garlic, and feel free to experiment with additional seasonings and herbs to suit your taste.

Roasted pumpkin and garlic FAQ:

How long should I roast the pumpkin and garlic?

Roast the pumpkin and garlic in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and slightly caramelized.

How do I know when the pumpkin is done roasting?

Check for doneness by piercing the pumpkin with a fork. It should easily pierce through the cubes when they are properly roasted.

What can I use as a substitute for olive oil in this recipe?

You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, melted coconut oil, or even avocado oil for similar roasting results.

Can I store leftover roasted pumpkin and garlic?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What pan size is recommended for roasting this amount of pumpkin?

A large baking sheet or roasting pan is recommended to ensure the pumpkin cubes are in a single layer for even roasting.

Tips:

- Choose a small, sweet variety of pumpkin for the best flavor.

- Cut the pumpkin into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting.

- Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper before roasting for added flavor.

- Turn the pumpkin pieces halfway through roasting to ensure even browning.

- Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 130kcal
Protein 5.00g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 2.48g
Sugar 13g
Fat 14g

Roasted pumpkin and garlic