Roasted Pumpkin Cubes with Spice (Printable Version)
Golden spiced pumpkin cubes, tender with crisp edges. Perfect warming side dish or snack.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2.2 lbs pumpkin, peeled, seeded, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
→ Oils
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
→ Spices & Seasonings
03 - 1 tsp ground cumin
04 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
06 - 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
07 - 3/4 tsp fine sea salt
08 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Garnish (optional)
09 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
10 - 1 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds
# How To Make It:
01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Place pumpkin cubes in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
03 - Spread pumpkin cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded.
04 - Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway, until pumpkin is golden and tender with crisp edges.
05 - Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped herbs and toasted pumpkin seeds, if desired. Serve hot.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The spice rub transforms plain pumpkin into something crave worthy and complex
- They reheat beautifully so you can make a big batch for the week
- The crispy edges and tender middles create the most satisfying texture contrast
02 -
- Crowding the baking sheet is the fastest way to end up with steamed mushy cubes instead of roasted ones
- Letting them roast 5 minutes longer than you think creates the best caramelized crust
03 -
- Cut your cubes as uniformly as possible so they finish roasting at the same time
- Let the tray sit in the hot oven for a few extra minutes if you want extra crispy edges