| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 275 | 15g | 4g | 32g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 18g | 3g | 7g | 0.9g |
I absolutely adore our recipe for Roasted Calabazas. My family and I have bonded over it countless times and now we are thrilled to share it with the readers of our blog, Your Gourmet Guru. This recipe blends the rich, savory flavor of the calabazas pumpkin—a beloved staple in many world cuisines—with a hint of sweet ingredients like cranberries, apples, and maple syrup. Olive oil, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg lend a comforting aroma, completing this dish’s elegant fusion of diverse, tantalizing flavors.
A Fusion of Cultures
The vibrant flavors in this dish remind us that food can be the perfect platform for cultural exchange. My Gujarati roots have always inclined me towards dishes with a big personality. The calabazas, feta cheese, and fresh herbs beautifully reflect the freshness of my West Coast influence. At the same time, the nutmeg and cinnamon transport me back to my grandmother’s kitchen where I was introduced to the wonders of Indian cuisine.
The Healthy Alternative
What I especially love about this recipe is its impressive health benefits. Calabazas are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They can contribute to reducing the risk of chronic diseases, promote eye health, and support the immune system. Olive oil, on the other hand, is a great source of monounsaturated fats which can promote heart health. The cranberries and apples add an extra punch of antioxidants, contributing to your overall well-being in every delightful bite.
Not only is this Roasted Calabazas recipe a feast for your taste buds, but it is also substantially filling thanks to the fiber content from the pumpkins and apples. It’s a healthier alternative to many calorie-laden dishes, making it a go-to recipe for anyone watching their diet or looking for a more wholesome meal option.
Dining Companions
Roasted Calabazas pairs splendidly with a variety of dishes. Imagine it beside a Grilled Chicken Masala for a fusion dinner or with a simple Greek Lentil Salad for a refreshing, light lunch. Its medley of spices works well with most grains and protein-based dishes, making it an incredibly versatile side to incorporate into your meal plans.
Loading up your plate with this heartwarming Roasted Calabazas, you’ll be treating yourself to a meal that pleases the palate, nourishes the body, and resonates with the rich tapestry of two beautiful cultures. And that’s why it’s a recipe I love and will always recommend.
What You’ll Need
- 3 small calabazas pumpkins (about 18 ounces each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 medium red apple, cored and chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, wash your calabazas pumpkins thoroughly and cut them into halves. Remove the seeds and outmost fibrous part.
Step Two
Take a baking sheet and place the pumpkin halves on it, cut sides up. Drizzle each half liberally with olive oil, rubbing it into the inner flesh of the pumpkin for even distribution. Sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste directly on each half.
Step Three
Rinse the fresh cranberries and chop your red apple into small pieces. Combine these in a bowl with the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Please ensure that the apple and cranberries are coated well with the spices.
Step Four
Divide your apple and cranberry mixture between the pumpkin halves, spooning it into the cavities. Drizzle the maple syrup evenly over each half. Roast the pumpkins in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, until the pumpkins are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step Five
While the pumpkins are roasting, take your pecans and chop them. Once the pumpkins are done roasting, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the chopped pecans and crumbled feta cheese over the top.
Step Six
Return the pumpkins to the oven for just a minute or two, until the cheese begins to melt slightly. Remove the pumpkins from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.
