BBQ pumpkin salad

Why this pumpkin salad will elevate your next BBQ

Great salads have the ability to transform an everyday BBQ into a gathering to remember, and this pumpkin salad recipe is definitely a show stopper. It takes colourful vegetables and pairs them with creamy goat’s cheese and crunchy pepitas for a side that will get everyone talking. Best of all, the grilled pumpkin can be cooked on the BBQ to save you space in the kitchen.

What is the best pumpkin variety for BBQ pumpkin wedges

Pumpkin is a super-versatile veggie: it’s equally at home mashed, steamed or, as we’ve used it here, on the barbie. But which type to use? For this pumpkin and beetroot salad we suggest going with Kent pumpkin. You can cut it into wedges easily and it holds its shape on the grill. And the best news? There’s no need to peel a Kent variety before cooking pumpkin on a BBQ – just cut it into thin wedges and throw it on the barbie for pumpkin grilled to perfection.

Tips for cooking pumpkin on a BBQ

You’ll notice the cooking time for the pumpkin in this recipe is pretty quick – just 3 minutes on each side. That’s because we’ve cut the pumpkin into super-thin slices. Once the BBQ is hot, brush both sides with oil – this will stop the pumpkin on the BBQ from sticking – then place the wedges over direct heat. Now this bit is important to ensure your pumpkin and goat’s cheese salad is cooked to perfection – only turn the wedges once. If you turn them multiple times, you’ll have char marks going every which way and you may even tear the pumpkin pieces. When the pumpkin is cooked, it will be tender with a smoky flavour from the grill.

How to assemble the beetroot and pumpkin salad

A large platter is the way to go for this salad. It allows you to layer all the elements and show off their individual shapes and colours but, remember, this dish is best assembled just before serving so the beetroot’s rich colour doesn’t run into the rest of the salad. Start layering with the BBQ pumpkin and onion, then add in beetroot and rocket – as well as a slightly peppery flavour, the rocket adds a delicate, fresh look to the salad. Don’t dress the BBQ pumpkin salad until you're just about to serve – this keeps the ingredients fresh and prevents the salad from going soggy. Finally, sprinkle with the goat's cheese and toasted pepitas, and it’s ready to serve!

Love this beetroot, pumpkin and goat’s cheese salad recipe?

Looking for mains to serve with this sensational salad? Head to our easy BBQ recipes collection where you will discover loads of recipes to pair with this pumpkin beetroot salad. It also makes a great side when served up with our butterflied lamb with mint and garlic. Give it a try!