What type of pumpkin is best for this dish?

A small round pumpkin around 2 pounds works best, peeled and sliced for even roasting and easy arrangement.

Can other vegetables be used to create the lantern design?

Yes, vegetables like carrots or eggplant can substitute for added color and variety in the jack-o-lantern pattern.

Smoked paprika combined with ground cumin adds a warm, smoky depth that complements the roasted vegetables.

Toasted pumpkin seeds add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall experience.

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-free, making it accessible for various diets.

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 brings a playful touch to our Halloween table each year and is always a hit with both kids and adults alike.

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

Preheat:: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange:: Arrange the pumpkin slices in a large circle on the baking sheet to form the shape of a pumpkin face.
Outline:: 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:: Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Roast:: Roast in the oven for 25 30 minutes, until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
Transfer:: Carefully transfer the roasted lantern to a serving platter, maintaining the jack-o-lantern face.
Garnish:: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds before serving.

My family loves gathering around to admire the festive look before digging in, making it a cherished Halloween tradition.

Baking sheet, parchment paper, chefs knife, cutting board

Contains seeds (pumpkin seeds). Recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Check all packaged ingredients for potential allergens.

Calories: 120 per serving. Total Fat: 7 g. Carbohydrates: 15 g. Protein: 2 g.

This pumpkin lantern plate makes the perfect centerpiece and appetizer for your Halloween festivities.

→ What type of pumpkin is best for this dish?: A small round pumpkin around 2 pounds works best, peeled and sliced for even roasting and easy arrangement.
→ Can other vegetables be used to create the lantern design?: Yes, vegetables like carrots or eggplant can substitute for added color and variety in the jack-o-lantern pattern.
→ How is the smoky flavor achieved in this dish?: Smoked paprika combined with ground cumin adds a warm, smoky depth that complements the roasted vegetables.
→ What is the purpose of the pumpkin seeds on top?: Toasted pumpkin seeds add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
→ Is this dish suitable for dietary restrictions?: Yes, it is naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-free, making it accessible for various diets.