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Roasted Kabocha Squash with Cumin Salt

This roasted kabocha squash with cumin salt is a wonderful way to enjoy the naturally sweet, nutty flavour of this dense Japanese pumpkin. Unlike other varieties, the skin of the kabocha is edible and adds a lovely texture once softened in the oven. The homemade seasoning, featuring toasted cumin seeds and a hint of smoked paprika, creates a fragrant crust that balances the squash’s rich interior perfectly.

As a versatile vegan side dish, this recipe fits seamlessly into a Sunday roast or can be served as the centrepiece of a nourishing winter salad. It is an excellent source of vitamins and fibre, making it a healthy addition to your weekly meal plan. Serve it warm from the tray, perhaps with a drizzle of tahini or a scatter of fresh coriander.

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Ingredients for Roasted Kabocha Squash with Cumin Salt

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds,toasted 1 minute in a dry skillet

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1/4 teaspoons smoked paprika (pimenton) or regular paprika

  • 2 teaspoons packed brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon sea salt

  • 1 kabocha squash (about 1.1kg), partially peeled, seeded, cut into 1-inch chunks

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to make Roasted Kabocha Squash with Cumin Salt

Heat oven to 191°C. Combine cumin seeds with bay leaf and paprika in a spice mill or clean coffee grinder and process briefly. Add sugar and salt and process to combine. Set aside. Toss squash with oil, then cumin mixture. Spread on 2 baking sheets and roast until tender, about 25 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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