Roasted Pumpkin Cubes with Spice (Printable)
Golden spiced pumpkin cubes roasted with aromatic spices for a warming side dish.
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2.2 lbs pumpkin, peeled, seeded, cut into ¾-inch cubes
→ Oils
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
→ Spices & Seasonings
03 - 1 tsp ground cumin
04 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
05 - ½ tsp ground cinnamon
06 - ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
07 - ¾ tsp fine sea salt
08 - ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Garnish (optional)
09 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
10 - 1 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
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 all cubes are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
03 - Spread seasoned pumpkin cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded to promote even roasting and caramelization.
04 - Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning the cubes once halfway through cooking, until pumpkin is golden and tender with crispy, caramelized edges.
05 - Transfer roasted pumpkin to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and toasted pumpkin seeds if desired. Serve hot as a side dish or snack.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
- It turns a cheap seasonal staple into something that feels fancy enough for a dinner party.
- The spice blend hits a perfect balance between smoky and sweet without being overwhelming.
02 -
- Overcrowding the baking sheet is the fastest way to end up with soggy steamed pumpkin instead of crispy bites.
- Letting the tray sit in the hot oven for an extra five minutes can transform them from merely tender to perfectly caramelized.
03 -
- Drying the washed pumpkin cubes with a clean towel before tossing them with oil makes a huge difference in crispiness.
- Warming your spices in the oil for a minute in the microwave creates an infusion of flavor that is hard to beat.