There’s something truly irresistible about the warm, nutty aroma that fills the kitchen when pumpkin meets the earthy crunch of dukkah spice. Roasting pumpkin this way transforms it into a golden, tender treat that’s both simple and sophisticated—a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re craving a cozy side dish to elevate your weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this roasted pumpkin with dukkah spice blend hits all the right notes. Join me as I share how this colorful dish brings vibrant flavors and a delightful texture to your table with just a handful of ingredients and easy steps.
Why try Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend?
Simplicity meets sophistication in this recipe, requiring just a handful of ingredients for a stunning dish. Rich, nutty flavors from the dukkah spice blend perfectly complement the sweetness of roasted pumpkin. Versatile as a side or salad topper, it adds warmth and color to any meal. Best of all, it’s a quick, crowd-pleasing way to enjoy seasonal comfort food with minimal effort.
Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend Ingredients
For the Roasted Pumpkin
- Butternut pumpkin (or sugar pumpkin) – choose a firm pumpkin with vibrant orange flesh for the perfect texture and natural sweetness.
- Olive oil – helps the pumpkin roast evenly while enhancing its rich, nutty flavors.
- Salt – balances the sweetness of the pumpkin and brings out the spice notes beautifully.
For the Dukkah Spice Blend
- Toasted hazelnuts or almonds – adds a satisfying crunch and a deep, earthy nutty base to the spice blend.
- Sesame seeds – provide a warm, delicate nuttiness that complements the pumpkin’s sweetness.
- Coriander seeds – lightly crushed for a citrusy, aromatic lift that brightens the dish.
- Cumin seeds – bring a smoky warmth that harmonizes with the roasting pumpkin.
- Black pepper – adds a subtle heat that gently tingles the taste buds without overpowering.
Make sure to toast the nuts and seeds gently to maximize the vibrant, aromatic qualities that make this Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend so irresistible!
How to Make Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend
- Preheat: Preheat oven to 400°F on the center rack, ensuring even heat for tender, golden-brown pumpkin wedges that bake perfectly in about 30–35 minutes.
- For the Dukkah Spice Blend:
- Toast: Place hazelnuts, sesame seeds, coriander, and cumin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Grind: Transfer the warm mixture to a food processor, pulsing in short bursts until you achieve a coarse, varied texture that’s perfect for crunchy dukkah.
- For the Pumpkin:
- Toss: Drizzle pumpkin wedges with olive oil and sea salt, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly in a light, glossy sheen for optimal roasting results.
- Roast: Spread the wedges in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, roasting at 400°F for 30–35 minutes until edges are caramelized and centers yield under gentle pressure.
- Sprinkle: Immediately remove from oven, sprinkle generously with dukkah spice blend, and press lightly so the crunchy blend clings beautifully to each warm pumpkin wedge.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of Greek yogurt for creamy contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend
- Choose the right pumpkin: Select a firm, bright orange butternut or sugar pumpkin for naturally sweet, tender wedges that roast evenly.
- Toast nuts and seeds gently: Use medium heat and stir constantly to prevent burning and preserve the vibrant flavors of the dukkah spice blend.
- Coarse grind for texture: Pulse the dukkah ingredients just until coarsely ground to keep a satisfying crunchy contrast on the roasted pumpkin.
- Even oil coating: Toss pumpkin wedges lightly but thoroughly in olive oil to promote caramelization and prevent dryness during roasting.
- Add dukkah while hot: Sprinkle the spice blend immediately after roasting so it sticks well and releases its warm, nutty aroma.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan: Space pumpkin pieces out on the baking sheet to ensure each wedge crisps up rather than steams, enhancing flavor and texture.
Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful dish with a few tasty twists!
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Sweet Twist: Add a drizzle of maple syrup before roasting for a caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Nuts Gone Wild: Swap in toasted pistachios for a vibrant color and a unique crunch, complementing the nutty dukkah blend nicely.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh rosemary or sage with the pumpkin for an aromatic boost that enhances the dish’s earthiness.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dukkah for an extra layer of heat, perfect for those who crave a little spice.
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Creamy Upgrade: Serve with a dollop of creamy goat cheese or feta crumble on top for a rich, tangy contrast that elevates the flavors.
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Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds instead of nuts in the dukkah to keep the flavor while making it allergy-friendly for nut sensitivities.
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Zesty Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the roasted pumpkin just before serving for a citrusy brightness that lifts the flavors.
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Savory Spin: Incorporate grated Parmesan into the dukkah blend for a cheesy crunch that adds depth and richness to this scrumptious dish.
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend
Fridge: Store leftover roasted pumpkin in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and flavorful, ready for reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze roasted pumpkin in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months, maintaining its delicious taste.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the pumpkin in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps the pumpkin crispy and enhances the dukkah spice blend’s aroma.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend are perfect for meal prep during your busy week! You can prepare the dukkah spice blend up to 3 days in advance. Simply toast the nuts and seeds, grind them, and store the blend in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can chop the pumpkin wedges and toss them with olive oil and salt up to 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate them in a covered container until you’re ready to roast. When it’s time to serve, roast the pumpkin at 400°F for 30–35 minutes, sprinkle with the dukkah spice blend, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend?
There’s nothing like the warmth and richness of complementary dishes that can turn a simple roasted pumpkin into a celebration of flavors.
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Quinoa Salad: The nutty flavors of cooked quinoa provide a hearty and nutritious base, perfect for holding the dukkah-spiced pumpkin. Toss in some fresh herbs for a refreshing crunch.
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Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, marinated chicken perfectly balances the earthy spices, making for a tempting main dish that pairs wonderfully with the sweet pumpkin.
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Cinnamon Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness and warm spice echo the flavors of the roasted pumpkin, creating a harmonious duo on your dinner plate.
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Feta Cheese Crumbles: Adding feta brings a salty creaminess that contrasts brilliantly with the sweet, spiced pumpkin. It’s a delightful way to elevate the dish.
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Pita Bread and Hummus: Serve these for a delightful dip alongside your roasted pumpkin. The smoothness of the hummus enhances the crunch of the dukkah, creating a satisfying bite.
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Apple Cider: A chilled glass of spiced apple cider brings out the fall flavors beautifully, providing a refreshing and aromatic drink that complements the dish perfectly.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this rich, gooey cake offers a decadent conclusion, making the sweetness of the pumpkin dessert even more pronounced through contrast.
Let your dinner take flight by mixing and matching these delightful options with your roasted pumpkin!
Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin for roasting?
Look for a firm butternut or sugar pumpkin with vibrant orange flesh and no soft spots. The brighter the color, the sweeter and more tender the pumpkin will roast!
Can I store leftover roasted pumpkin, and how long does it last?
Absolutely! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure the pumpkin has cooled before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.
Is it possible to freeze roasted pumpkin with dukkah spice?
Yes, and I highly recommend it! First, spread the cooled pumpkin pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 2-3 hours). Then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air. Frozen this way, your pumpkin stays delicious for up to 3 months.
What if my dukkah spice blend turns out too strong or bland?
No worries! The beauty of dukkah is its versatility—if it’s too strong, sprinkle less on the pumpkin or mix with extra olive oil before roasting. If bland, toast your nuts and seeds a bit longer to unlock deeper aromas or add a pinch more black pepper and cumin for warmth.
Is this recipe safe for my pets or suitable for allergy sufferers?
This recipe contains nuts and seeds, which can be harmful to pets and trigger allergies. I recommend keeping roasted pumpkin and dukkah away from pets and informing guests about nut content if allergies are a concern. For a nut-free version, try using roasted pumpkin seeds instead of nuts in your dukkah blend!
Easy Roasted Pumpkin with Dukkah Spice Blend That Wows Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast hazelnuts, sesame seeds, coriander, and cumin seeds for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Transfer the toasted mixture to a food processor and pulse in short bursts until you have a coarse texture.
- Drizzle pumpkin wedges with olive oil and salt, tossing gently to coat.
- Spread the wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 30–35 minutes until caramelized.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the dukkah spice blend, and press lightly to adhere.
