Savory Roasted Pumpkin with Creamy Lemon Yogurt and Crunchy Pine Nuts

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When fall rolls around and pumpkins are in peak season, there’s no better way to bring warmth and flavor to your table than with this stunning dish. Savory Roasted Pumpkin with Creamy Lemon Yogurt and Crunchy Pine Nuts is a delicious twist on classic roasted vegetables. It’s vibrant, comforting, and sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party — yet easy enough to enjoy on a weeknight.

What makes this dish truly irresistible is the way the flavors balance each other. The sweet, caramelized pumpkin contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon yogurt and the nutty crunch of toasted pine nuts. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs, every bite is a celebration of texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Roasted Pumpkin

• It brings together bold flavors with minimal effort
• It looks impressive and tastes gourmet
• It can be served warm or at room temperature
• It’s vegetarian-friendly and great for all seasons
• It pairs wonderfully with proteins or grains for a full meal

What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

For this recipe, sugar pumpkin or kabocha squash works best. These varieties roast beautifully, developing a soft interior and caramelized exterior. Make sure to choose a pumpkin that’s firm and heavy for its size. Avoid using large carving pumpkins as they tend to be watery and bland in flavor. If you’re short on time, peeled and pre-cut pumpkin cubes from the store can also do the trick.

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Ingredients for the Savory Roasted Pumpkin with Creamy Lemon Yogurt and Crunchy Pine Nuts

Each component plays an important role in building flavor and texture in this dish:

• Pumpkin: The star of the recipe. Its natural sweetness intensifies when roasted, creating the perfect base.
• Olive oil: Used for roasting, it helps the pumpkin caramelize and adds richness.
• Greek yogurt: Thick and creamy, it creates a cool contrast to the warm roasted pumpkin.
• Lemon juice & zest: Adds brightness and acidity to the yogurt sauce, lifting the overall flavor.
• Garlic: Brings depth and warmth to the lemon yogurt.
• Pine nuts: Toasted until golden, they add a delicious crunch and nutty aroma.
• Fresh herbs (dill and parsley): Sprinkle over the top to add freshness and color.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.

How To Make the Savory Roasted Pumpkin with Creamy Lemon Yogurt and Crunchy Pine Nuts

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Pumpkin

Peel and cut the pumpkin into thick wedges or chunks. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread out on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden and caramelized on the edges.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Lemon Yogurt

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix well and chill until ready to use.

Step 3: Toast the Pine Nuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Stir constantly to avoid burning.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Arrange the roasted pumpkin pieces on a serving plate. Spoon the creamy lemon yogurt on top, scatter toasted pine nuts, and finish with chopped parsley and dill. Drizzle with a touch more olive oil before serving.

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Serving and Storing Savory Roasted Pumpkin with Creamy Lemon Yogurt and Crunchy Pine Nuts

This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family-style side dish or a main course for two. Serve it warm right after assembly, or at room temperature for a relaxed presentation. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings.

To store leftovers, place the roasted pumpkin and yogurt separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the pumpkin gently in the oven or microwave, and spoon over fresh yogurt and pine nuts when ready to serve again.

What to Serve With Savory Roasted Pumpkin

Herbed Couscous or Quinoa

Light and fluffy grains like couscous or quinoa absorb the flavorful yogurt and olive oil, making a balanced meal.

Grilled Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken breasts or thighs complement the tangy yogurt and sweet pumpkin.

Warm Flatbread or Pita

Use soft bread to scoop up every bit of pumpkin and yogurt.

Roasted Chickpeas

Add an extra layer of crunch and protein with spiced roasted chickpeas.

Mixed Greens Salad

A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to the rich and creamy elements.

Baked Halloumi

This salty, firm cheese offers a great contrast in both texture and flavor.

Lentil Stew

A warm, spiced lentil stew complements the sweetness of the pumpkin and rounds out the meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use butternut squash instead of pumpkin?
Yes! Butternut squash has a similar texture and sweetness to sugar pumpkin. It roasts beautifully and works just as well in this recipe.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to Greek yogurt?
Absolutely. Use a thick dairy-free yogurt made from coconut, almond, or soy. Make sure it’s unsweetened and plain to keep the savory balance.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the pumpkin and mix the yogurt sauce a day ahead. Store them separately and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What other toppings can I add?
Try crumbled feta, a sprinkle of za’atar, or even a drizzle of pomegranate molasses for a Middle Eastern twist.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different herb mix? Swap pine nuts for almonds?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Check out more recipe inspiration on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

Conclusion

Savory Roasted Pumpkin with Creamy Lemon Yogurt and Crunchy Pine Nuts is a simple yet elegant dish that brings seasonal ingredients to life. Whether served as a side or centerpiece, it offers a burst of flavor, texture, and color that’s hard to resist. Give it a try and let your kitchen be filled with the aromas of roasted goodness and zesty brightness.

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