Description
Enjoy the warm, sweet flavors of Maple Roasted Pumpkin Wedges, a cozy side dish featuring tender pumpkin coated in a maple glaze with spices. Roasted to caramelized perfection, these wedges are perfect for any meal and can be enhanced with balsamic vinegar for added depth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 3–4 pounds)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Carefully cut the pumpkin in half using a sharp chefs knife, stabilizing it on a cutting board.
- Scoop out the seeds and stringy insides with a large spoon. Save the seeds for roasting if desired.
- Cut each half into wedges, aiming for about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. If using, add chopped fresh rosemary.
- Whisk until well combined. For added depth, mix in balsamic vinegar.
- Place the pumpkin wedges in a large mixing bowl and pour the maple glaze over them.
- Toss the wedges with your hands until fully coated.
- Let the coated wedges sit for 10-15 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Arrange the pumpkin wedges in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Watch for tenderness and a golden-brown color during the last few minutes.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the wedges cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the roasted wedges to a serving platter and garnish with extra salt or fresh rosemary if desired.
- Serve warm, or use as a delicious addition to salads or grain bowls.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
- The optional balsamic vinegar adds a unique tang that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes