Trusty old pumpkin, which combines well with other flavours yet retains its own personality, is still considered by many as a roast dinner staple. Its warm sweetness and luscious texture contribute to many dishes and is the perfect foil for vibrant Asian and Mediterranean ingredients. Try chunks of roasted pumpkin in risotto and pasta or pumpkin puree in muffins and scones. Pumpkin can be substituted for sweet potato.
700g butternut pumpkin, peeled and cut into 2cm pieces
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 bunch English spinach, trimmed
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp cayenne, or to taste
Juice of 1 orange
120g feta cheese
55g almonds, toasted
3 rashers bacon, chopped
Cook pumpkin in a saucepan of lightly salted boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until just tender. Drain.
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat and add onion and garlic and cook for about 5 mins or until onion is soft. Add spinach, nutmeg and cayenne, stirring gently for 1 min or until aromatic. Stir in pumpkin and orange juice and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 mins. Stir in feta and almonds.
Cook bacon in a non-stick pan over medium heat for about 3-5 mins or until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towel.
To serve
Serve pumpkin salad warm with bacon pieces sprinkled over.
This recipe is featured in the book, Whip it Up which is available now in all good bookstores RRP $24.95. To order direct call 1300 656 059 or visit www.smh.com.au/store
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