The PUMPKIN AND SPECK BITES, small, irresistible and with an autumn aroma, are a perfect appetizer or finger food for any occasion. A delicious match between the velvety sweetness of pumpkin and the bold, smoky flavor of speck, creating a contrast that wins you over at first bite.
These delightful bites capture the simplicity of seasonal cooking: a few genuine ingredients combined to create an explosion of flavor. The roasted pumpkin becomes soft and enveloping, while the crispy speck adds a savory note that balances and enhances the vegetable’s flavor.
Perfect to serve as a warm appetizer, on a rustic buffet or as a tasty starter, the pumpkin and speck bites take just minutes to prepare and are always a hit.
A simple and refined idea that brings all the warmth and colors of autumn to the table.
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- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Inexpensive
- Preparation time: 15 Minutes
- Portions: 4 Servings
- Cooking methods: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Autumn, Winter
Ingredients
- 1 2/3 cups pumpkin (about 14 oz (400 g), peeled and diced)
- 12 slices speck (pancetta or bacon)
- to taste extra virgin olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- rosemary
For the pumpkin and speck bites you will need
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
- 1 Baking tray
- Parchment paper
Preparation of pumpkin and speck bites
Cut the pumpkin into slices about 3/4 inch thick, remove the skin and cut the flesh into cubes or sticks.
Arrange them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and season with oil, salt, pepper and a few rosemary needles.Bake in a preheated conventional oven at 392°F for about 20 minutes, until tender but not falling apart. Take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly.
Place a piece of pumpkin on half a slice of speck, roll gently and secure with a toothpick.
Arrange the bites back on the baking tray and cook for another 10 minutes or until the speck becomes crispy.Serve the pumpkin and speck bites hot as an appetizer or finger food. You can accompany them with a yogurt and honey sauce, or with a strong-flavored cheese spread.
They are also great as a light main course or on an autumn buffet.
