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Ina Garten Roasted Baby Pumpkins

Ina Garten Roasted Baby Pumpkins - recipe card

Tender baby pumpkins roasted with a maple-butter glaze until caramelized and fragrant. The flesh becomes silky and sweet, while the edges crisp slightly, making a stunning side dish for autumn meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 small baby pumpkins (about 1 lb each), washed and dried
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage leaves, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut each baby pumpkin in half through the stem end. Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers with a spoon, leaving a clean cavity.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, melted butter, maple syrup, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
  4. Arrange the pumpkin halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the flesh and cut edges generously with the maple-butter mixture, using about half of it.
  5. Roast the pumpkins for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining glaze. Return to the oven and continue roasting for 15-20 minutes, until the flesh is fork-tender and the edges are lightly caramelized.
  6. If using sage, scatter the sliced sage over the pumpkins during the last 5 minutes of roasting, allowing it to crisp slightly.
  7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, spooning any pan juices over the top.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place on a baking sheet in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, until heated through. Freezing is not recommended as the texture becomes watery. For a variation, drizzle with a little balsamic glaze before serving.

Nutrition

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