Pumpkin Recipes Vegetarian Lovers Will Absolutely Adore

Roasted Pumpkin and Quinoa Salad

• 3 cups pumpkin, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Blender or immersion blender (for soup)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Baking sheet
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree, cumin, and cinnamon. Cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
6. Return to pot and stir in coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through but do not boil.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Pumpkin and Chickpea Curry

1. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes.
3. Sprinkle in curry powder and turmeric and stir to coat the onions and garlic.
4. Add cubed pumpkin and chickpeas, stirring to mix everything well.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
6. Season with salt and garnish with fresh cilantro.
7. Serve with basmati rice for a complete meal.

Roasted Pumpkin and Quinoa Salad

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread pumpkin on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through until tender and caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, cook quinoa by bringing water or vegetable broth to a boil, adding quinoa, then simmering covered for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted pumpkin, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and chopped parsley.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss gently to combine. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or chilled as a hearty salad or side dish.

Tips & Variations

For a richer soup, swap coconut milk with heavy cream or cashew cream.

Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the curry for a spicy kick.

Roast the pumpkin with a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar for a sweeter salad variation.

Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but fresh pumpkin adds a more vibrant flavor.

Substitute quinoa with couscous or bulgur for different textures in the salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

The creamy pumpkin soup is perfect as an appetizer or light lunch, paired with rustic bread or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or roasted vegetables.

The pumpkin and chickpea curry shines when served over fragrant basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Add a side of sautéed greens or a cucumber raita to cool down the spice.

The roasted pumpkin and quinoa salad works well as a main dish for lunch or a side for dinner. Pair it with roasted root vegetables or a simple tomato soup.

It also makes a great filling for pita pockets or wraps.

Looking for more vegetarian inspiration? Check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or try a sweet treat like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

For a savory bread option to accompany your pumpkin dishes, explore the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Conclusion

Pumpkin is a seasonal treasure that can transform vegetarian meals from ordinary to extraordinary. These three pumpkin recipes offer a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, from the silky soup to the spiced curry and the vibrant quinoa salad.

Embracing pumpkin in your cooking not only adds warmth and comfort but also packs your diet with essential nutrients.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these recipes are easy to customize and sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices, herbs, and accompaniments to make these dishes your own.

Celebrate the season with pumpkin’s delicious possibilities and enjoy every bite!

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