Save to Pins A festive and fun dish featuring roasted pumpkin and colorful vegetables arranged to resemble a jack-o-lantern—perfect for a Halloween celebration.
This dish was a hit at our family Halloween party and made the celebration extra special.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 small round pumpkin (about 2 lbs) peeled seeded and cut into 1/2-inch slices 1 red bell pepper seeded and sliced into thin strips 1 yellow bell pepper seeded and sliced into thin strips 1 small zucchini sliced into rounds 1 small red onion sliced into thin wedges
- Seasonings: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp ground cumin Salt and pepper to taste
- Garnishes: 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds (pepitas) toasted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Set the oven to 400℉ (200℃) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange pumpkin slices:
- Place the pumpkin slices in a large circle on the baking sheet to form the shape of a pumpkin face.
- Outline face:
- Use bell pepper strips to outline the eyes nose and mouth of the jack-o-lantern Fill in with zucchini and red onion for color and contrast.
- Season vegetables:
- Drizzle with olive oil then sprinkle with smoked paprika cumin salt and pepper.
- Roast:
- Cook for 25 to 30 minutes until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Transfer:
- Carefully move the roasted lantern to a serving platter maintaining the jack-o-lantern face.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds before serving.
Save to Pins Our kids loved helping arrange the pumpkin face and enjoyed every bite together.
Notes
For added flavor serve with a yogurt or tahini dipping sauce on the side You can substitute other vegetables like carrots or eggplant for more variety Serve warm or at room temperature.
Required Tools
Baking sheet Parchment paper Chefs knife Cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains seeds (pumpkin seeds) Recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free Check all packaged ingredients for potential allergens.
Save to Pins This pumpkin lantern plate adds festive charm and healthy ingredients to your Halloween table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the best pumpkin type for this dish?
Choose a small round pumpkin that is firm and slightly sweet, perfect for roasting and slicing into even pieces.
- → Can I substitute other vegetables?
Yes, carrots, eggplant, or squash can be used to add variety in texture and color while maintaining the festive look.
- → How do I achieve tender, caramelized vegetables?
Roast the vegetables at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, ensuring they are evenly coated with olive oil and seasonings.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh parsley adds brightness and toasted pumpkin seeds provide a crunchy texture enhancing the flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for special diets?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian, appealing to various dietary preferences.