Roasted Pumpkin & Peas with Sesame Seeds and Green Tahini Sauce
This dish celebrates roasted pumpkin’s natural sweetness, paired with crispy peas and nutty sesame seeds. The creamy green tahini sauce adds a herby, lemony balance that makes every bite rich yet refreshing. It’s simple, plant-based, and full of Mediterranean flavor.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minute
Total Time: 45–50 minutes
️ Ingredients
For the Roasted Pumpkin & Peas
2 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed (about 300–350g)
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 ½ tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp sesame seeds (white or mixed)
For the Green Tahini Sauce
2 tbsp tahini (sesame paste)
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon (about 1 tbsp)
2 tbsp fresh parsley leaves
2 tbsp fresh cilantro or mint (optional for brightness)
1 small garlic clove
2–3 tbsp water (adjust for consistency)
Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Pumpkin and Peas
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Spread evenly on the sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes.
4. After 25 minutes, add peas to the tray, sprinkle sesame seeds, and toss lightly.
5. Roast another 10 minutes, until pumpkin is golden and peas slightly crisped.
Step 2: Make the Green Tahini Sauce
1. In a blender or small food processor, combine tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water 1 tbsp at a time until creamy but pourable
3. Taste and adjust — add more lemon for tang, more salt for balance, or herbs for freshness.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
1. Transfer roasted pumpkin and peas to a serving plate or bowl.
2. Drizzle generously with green tahini sauce.
3. Sprinkle extra sesame seeds and fresh herbs on top.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
Use butternut squash if pumpkin isn’t available — it roasts beautifully.
For extra crunch, add toasted almonds or pine nuts.
You can serve it over quinoa, couscous, or rice for a complete meal.
The green tahini sauce also pairs great with grilled chicken, fish, or falafel.
frequently asked questions FAQs
Q1: Can I make the tahini sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir or add a little water before using.
Q2: Can I use frozen peas?
Absolutely — just thaw them first or toss them directly into the oven in the last 10 minutes of roasting.
Q3: Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add a pinch of chili flakes or a bit of harissa to the tahini sauce for a kick.
ℹ️ Nutritional Information
Calories: 310 kcal
Protein: 10g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 7g