When the weather starts to cool and pumpkins begin to make their seasonal appearance, there’s no better way to celebrate fall than with a warm, creamy roasted pumpkin puree. This dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin with a velvety texture, topped with crunchy pistachios for a perfect contrast of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re serving it as a cozy side dish, a light lunch, or even as a base for a savory dinner, this roasted pumpkin puree is simple yet satisfying. It’s not only packed with flavor but also brimming with nutrients, making it a comforting and wholesome choice for autumn meals.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Naturally sweet and savory: Roasting the pumpkin brings out its natural sweetness while blending it into a creamy puree makes it smooth and rich.
- Healthy and nutrient-rich: Pumpkin is full of fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making this dish both delicious and nourishing.
- Versatile: Enjoy this puree as a side dish, a light meal, or even as a filling for savory pies or pasta.
How to make roasted pumpkin puree
Ingredients
- 1 medium pumpkin (about 3-4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water (adjust based on desired consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of pistachios, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: A drizzle of olive oil for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the pumpkin
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by cutting the pumpkin in half and scooping out the seeds. Place the pumpkin halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the olive oil over the pumpkin and scatter the peeled garlic cloves on the sheet. Roast in the oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the pumpkin flesh is tender and golden.
Step 2: Blend the pumpkin
Once the pumpkin has finished roasting, let it cool for a few minutes before scooping out the flesh. Add the roasted pumpkin and garlic to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, gradually adding vegetable broth (or water) to reach your desired creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Serve and garnish
Transfer the pumpkin puree to a serving bowl and drizzle with a little olive oil for extra richness. Top with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for a crunchy, nutty contrast. Serve warm as a comforting side dish or enjoy on its own for a light, nutritious meal.
Tips for perfect pumpkin puree
- Choose the right pumpkin: For the best flavor, use a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin, which are smaller and sweeter than larger carving pumpkins.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker puree, use less broth. For a smoother, thinner consistency, add a little more until you reach your preferred texture.
- Customize the flavor: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or smoked paprika to give your pumpkin puree extra warmth and depth.
Don’t let those pumpkins go to waste
This roasted pumpkin puree is a creamy, comforting dish that makes great use of those stray pumpkins from October. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients, so you can feel good about serving it to family and friends. So, grab your favorite pumpkins, roast them to perfection, and enjoy this warm, nutritious dish that’s perfect for the autumn season.
