These cheese rolls with rosemary and pumpkin offer a perfect balance of flavors with the natural sweetness of pumpkin, the warmth of rosemary, and the creamy texture of cheese. Paired with a tangy garlic yogurt sauce, they make an excellent appetizer or side dish for any meal. The sesame seeds add a subtle crunch, making each bite satisfying and flavorful.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 rolls
Ingredients
For the Cheese Rolls:
- 500–600g pumpkin, peeled and chopped
- ½ tsp dried garlic
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 20g flour
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- Fresh rosemary, chopped (for garnish)
- 100g grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both)
For the Sauce:
Directions
-
Prepare the Pumpkin:
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Peel and chop the pumpkin into cubes. Roast the pumpkin in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Once cooked, mash the pumpkin with a fork or blend it until smooth. -
Make the Cheese Roll Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin, dried garlic, black pepper, paprika, and flour. Add salt to taste, then mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. -
Form the Rolls:
Roll the pumpkin mixture into small balls or ovals, depending on your preference. Place the rolls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each roll with olive oil and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture. -
Bake the Cheese Rolls:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. -
Prepare the Sauce:
While the rolls are baking, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, and dill. Add salt to taste and stir well until smooth. -
Serve:
Once the cheese rolls have cooled slightly, serve them with the yogurt dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh rosemary for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an appetizer with a side of fresh salad.
- Pair with soups, such as butternut squash soup or lentil soup, for a warming meal.
- These cheese rolls are also great as a snack or party food.
Cooking Tips
- To make the rolls even richer, you can mix in some grated cheese into the pumpkin mixture before baking.
- You can substitute sesame seeds with poppy seeds or sunflower seeds for variety.
- Make sure the pumpkin is fully cooked and mashed to prevent the rolls from being too wet or soggy.
Nutritional Benefits
- Pumpkin: Packed with vitamins A and C, pumpkin is great for boosting immunity and promoting healthy skin.
- Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt provides probiotics, calcium, and protein, which help with digestion and support bone health.
- Olive Oil: A healthy source of monounsaturated fats, olive oil is beneficial for heart health and overall wellness.
Conclusion
These cheese rolls with rosemary and pumpkin are a delightful combination of flavors, perfect for any occasion. The creamy, cheesy center, combined with the earthy pumpkin and crispy exterior, makes them irresistible. Paired with the tangy yogurt sauce, these rolls are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cheese with your favorite variety. Gouda, parmesan, or a mix of cheeses can all work well.
3. Can I freeze the cheese rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese rolls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
5. How can I adjust the seasoning?
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding a bit of thyme or sage would complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully.