Roasted Pumpkin with Lemon Yogurt & Pine Nuts

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Golden, caramelized cubes of roasted pumpkin rest on a bed of tangy lemon yogurt, all crowned with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. This vibrant dish is bursting with bold Mediterranean flavor, balanced textures, and a gorgeous pop of color. Whether you’re serving it as a standout side or a light vegetarian main, it’s the kind of dish that invites compliments and second helpings.

The sweetness of roasted pumpkin pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the yogurt and the crunch of pine nuts. Fresh herbs add brightness, while olive oil enhances the richness. It’s a deceptively simple recipe that feels elevated—perfect for entertaining or a special weekend meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Pumpkin with Lemon Yogurt & Pine Nuts

• It’s a complete harmony of flavors: sweet, creamy, tangy, and nutty.
• Gorgeous presentation with minimal effort.
• Naturally vegetarian and easy to make gluten-free.
• Excellent for meal prep or potlucks.
• Works as a side dish, appetizer, or light dinner.

What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

For this recipe, sugar pumpkins (also called pie pumpkins) work best because of their natural sweetness and dense texture. Butternut squash is a great alternative if you can’t find pumpkin. Avoid carving pumpkins, as they tend to be watery and bland. Roasting brings out the best in these winter squashes, making them tender with caramelized edges and a rich, nutty flavor.

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Ingredients for the Roasted Pumpkin with Lemon Yogurt & Pine Nuts

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture that complement one another beautifully.

• Pumpkin (or butternut squash): The star of the dish, roasted until caramelized and tender.
• Greek yogurt: Acts as a creamy, tangy base to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin.
• Lemon zest & juice: Brightens the yogurt and brings a refreshing zing.
• Olive oil: Used both in roasting and drizzling, adding richness and a fruity note.
• Pine nuts: Toasted for crunch and a buttery, nutty finish.
• Fresh herbs (like mint, parsley, or cilantro): Provide color, aroma, and fresh flavor.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning the pumpkin and the yogurt.

How To Make the Roasted Pumpkin with Lemon Yogurt & Pine Nuts

Step 1: Prep the Pumpkin

Peel the pumpkin and remove the seeds. Cut it into roughly equal-sized cubes so they roast evenly.

Step 2: Season and Roast

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 30–35 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and slightly charred.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Yogurt

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of olive oil, a bit of lemon juice, and zest. Season lightly with salt and mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Toast the Pine Nuts

While the pumpkin roasts, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Spread the lemon yogurt on the base of a serving plate. Arrange the roasted pumpkin over the top. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and freshly chopped herbs. Drizzle a little more olive oil for a glossy finish.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature, as a stunning side dish or a standalone vegetarian meal.

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How to Serve and Store Roasted Pumpkin with Lemon Yogurt & Pine Nuts

This dish serves 4 as a side or 2 as a light vegetarian main. Serve it on a large platter with a generous base of yogurt and the pumpkin artfully arranged on top. It’s ideal served slightly warm or at room temperature, making it a flexible choice for entertaining.

To store leftovers, keep the yogurt and pumpkin separate in airtight containers. The roasted pumpkin can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently in the oven or a skillet before serving. The yogurt sauce can be stored for 3 days but is best fresh.

What to Serve With Roasted Pumpkin with Lemon Yogurt & Pine Nuts?

Hummus and Warm Pita Bread

The creamy texture of hummus complements the tangy yogurt and sweet pumpkin perfectly.

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Add some protein to make this a hearty meal. The smokiness of grilled chicken pairs well with roasted flavors.

Couscous or Quinoa Salad

Light grain salads with herbs and citrus dressing balance the richness of the pumpkin.

Roasted Cauliflower or Broccoli

Serve alongside another roasted veggie to create a beautiful fall-themed platter.

Warm Lentil Salad

Earthy lentils bring depth and heartiness while keeping the meal vegetarian.

Feta Cheese and Olives

Add a salty, briny contrast that highlights the sweet and nutty tones.

A Glass of Crisp White Wine

A Sauvignon Blanc or dry Riesling would complement the lemony yogurt and roasted pumpkin beautifully.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the pumpkin and prepare the lemon yogurt up to a day in advance. Store separately and assemble just before serving to maintain the textures.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Absolutely. Swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative like coconut or almond-based yogurt. Just ensure it’s unsweetened and plain.

Can I use other nuts instead of pine nuts?
Yes, toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds also work well. Choose what you have on hand or prefer flavor-wise.

What herbs work best in this recipe?
Fresh mint, parsley, or cilantro all add brightness. You can even use a combination. Avoid dried herbs for this particular dish, as they won’t deliver the same pop of freshness.

Do I need to peel the pumpkin?
For most pumpkins and butternut squash, yes, peeling helps with texture and presentation. However, if the skin is thin and tender, you can leave it on—just roast a bit longer to ensure it’s fully softened.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a sprinkle of feta or maybe a hint of chili oil? Did you use squash instead of pumpkin?
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Conclusion

Roasted Pumpkin with Lemon Yogurt & Pine Nuts is a celebration of seasonal ingredients brought together in an effortless yet elegant way. It’s comforting without being heavy, flavorful without being fussy, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes and pantry. Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself to a nourishing plate, this recipe delivers a feast for the senses.

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