Festive pumpkin blinds

Introducing our delicious “Festive Pumpkin Blind” – a heavenly choice for anyone looking for an exquisite vegetarian centerpiece on Christmas Day. This simple yet delicious cake is a real crowd pleaser and beautifully complements all popular holiday side dishes. Bursting with full pumpkin flavors and perfectly seasoned with aromatic herbs, it’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Prepared with care and love, this cake is sure to impress your guests and create an unforgettable Christmas experience. Treat your taste buds and brighten up your holiday celebration with this effortless masterpiece.

Ingredients

1 large butternut squash, cut into pieces
4 cloves of garlic, unpeeled and crushed
Rosemary sprig, leaves picked and chopped
a few sprigs of thyme, leaves stripped
3 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 large mushroom, chopped
125g pack of cooked chestnuts, broken into large pieces
2 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tbsp chopped sage
250g can of mascarpone
1 tbsp grated Parmesan, Pecorino or vegetarian alternative
a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
500g pack of puff pastry
1 egg, beaten

Preparation steps

Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6.
Place the pumpkin in a roasting pan along with the garlic, rosemary and thyme leaves.
Drizzle with 2 tablespoons oil and season well.
Roast for 40 minutes until tender and starting to brown.
Remove the garlic, squeeze it out of the peel, crush it and mix it gently with the pumpkin. Then set it aside to cool.
Heat remaining oil in a small pan and fry the onion until soft and lightly golden brown.
Add the mushroom and fry for another 3-4 minutes.
Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix together the chestnuts, herbs, cheese and nutmeg.
Stir in the mushroom and pumpkin mixture, being careful not to chop up the pumpkin too much.
Season well.
Roll out a third of the dough into a 12 x 30 cm rectangle.
Place on a baking tray and prick all over with a fork, brush with beaten egg and bake for 10 minutes until the dough is lightly golden brown and slightly risen.
Roll out the remaining two-thirds into a rectangle slightly larger than the base.
Cut diagonally with a sharp knife.
Pour the filling onto the half-baked base, leaving a 1 cm border.
Brush the edge with a little beaten egg, carefully place the unbaked dough on top and press the edges to seal.
Brush the top with a little more egg and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the dough is golden brown, risen and cooked through.

Nutritional Information

kcal	fat	saturates	carbohydrates	Sugar	fiber	protein	Salt
694	52g	25g	50g	12g	5g	10g	1.04g

Equipment and tools

To make this festive pumpkin blind you will need the following equipment and tools:

dulcimer
Knife
sheet
frying pan
spatula
Pastry brush
rolling pin

Allergen information

Please note the following allergen information for this recipe:

Contains gluten (from puff pastry)
Contains dairy products (mascarpone, parmesan)
May contain nuts (chestnuts).

Storage and leftovers

Leftovers from this festive pumpkin blind can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the blind in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Health Benefits of Festive Pumpkin Blinds

The Festive Squash Blind is a delicious dish that not only pleases the taste buds but also offers several health benefits. This savory pastry contains a combination of nutritious ingredients that contribute to its overall flavor. Let’s take a closer look at some of the health benefits:

1. Butternut Squash:

The main ingredient in this recipe is butternut squash, which is full of important vitamins and minerals. It is rich in vitamins A, C and E, which act as powerful antioxidants and protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Butternut squash also contains fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.

2. Garlic:

Garlic not only adds flavor to the dish but also offers numerous health benefits. It has been used for centuries due to its potential to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of heart disease. Garlic contains compounds that may help lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol.

3. Various Herbs:

This recipe calls for fragrant herbs like rosemary and thyme, which not only enhance the flavor but also provide several health benefits. Rosemary is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can improve digestion. Thyme is also rich in antioxidants and is used as a natural remedy for coughs and congestion.

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4. Mushrooms:

The addition of mushrooms in this recipe provides a rich, earthy flavor. Mushrooms are low in calories and are an excellent source of essential nutrients such as vitamin D, selenium and potassium. They also contain beta-glucans, a type of fiber that can support a healthy immune system.

5. Chestnuts:

Chestnuts are not only a festive but also a nutritious addition. They are a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber and various vitamins and minerals. Chestnuts are also low in fat and can be a healthier alternative to other nuts.

6. Mascarpone:

Mascarpone cheese gives the dish a creamy touch. While it is high in calories, it also provides a good amount of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

7. Puff pastry:

The puff pastry used in this recipe creates a wonderfully flaky consistency. However, it is important to note that puff pastry is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.

Overall, the Festive Squash Blind not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a range of health benefits. From the antioxidants in butternut squash to the immune-boosting properties of garlic, this dish brings together a variety of nutritious ingredients to contribute to your well-being.