Name: Caramelized Maple-Glazed Pumpkin with Sweet Red Onions
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 cups pumpkin, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 large red onion, cut into wedges; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped; 3/4 cup Danish feta, crumbled; 1 small red chili, finely minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Description

Imagine a dish that captures the essence of fall, blending sweet and savory flavors in a vibrant display.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups pumpkin, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 large red onion, cut into wedges
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
3/4 cup Danish feta, crumbled
1 small red chili, finely minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to a perfect 200°C (400°F). While the oven warms up, take your pumpkin and red onion. Cut the pumpkin into 1-inch cubes and slice the red onion into wedges. This will maximize their caramelization while roasting. Toss them in a large mixing bowl with olive oil, pure maple syrup, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Make sure every piece is evenly coated to ensure the flavors meld beautifully during roasting.
Next, transfer the coated vegetables onto the prepared baking tray in a single layer. This spacing allows the veggies to roast evenly without steaming. Place the tray in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the vegetables halfway through. You’re looking for a golden, caramelized appearance and a tender texture—this will intensify their natural sweetness.
While your pumpkin and onions are roasting, take another pan and place it over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast them for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them; toasted walnuts should have a lovely golden color. Once done, set them aside and prepare for assembly.
Once the vegetables have finished roasting, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a long serving plate. Scatter the toasted walnuts generously on top. Now, it’s time for the feta! Crumble it over the warm pumpkin so it can soften slightly and meld with the warm vegetables. Finally, sprinkle the minced red chili and chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Notes

Ensure even cutting of the pumpkin for uniform cooking; adjust maple syrup based on sweetness preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish

Nutrition

Calories: 250 kcal
Sodium: 350 mg
Protein: 6 g