If you’re craving a dish that combines comforting warmth with elegant flavor, the Red Kuri Squash and Goat’s Cheese Manti Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These delicate Turkish-inspired dumplings filled with roasted red kuri squash and creamy goat cheese create a satisfying balance of sweetness, earthiness, and a touch of tang. Each bite melts in your mouth, while the aromatic spices and silky garlic yogurt topping elevate the whole experience to something truly special. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or sharing it with friends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe hinges on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the naturally sweet and creamy red kuri squash to the tangy richness of goat cheese, every element plays a crucial role in making your manti unforgettable.
- Red kuri squash (1 small, about 1.5 pounds): Roasting this squash brings out its sweet, nutty flavor and velvety texture, perfect for a dumpling filling.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a fruity richness that helps roast the squash beautifully without drying it out.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor and balances out the sweetness of the squash.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle warmth that complements the spices and cheese.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses the filling with subtle aromatic depth and warmth.
- Ground cumin (1/4 teaspoon): Adds an earthy, slightly smoky note that pairs beautifully with red kuri squash.
- Goat cheese (4 ounces, softened): Brings creamy tang and richness, balancing the sweet squash perfectly.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Offers a burst of fresh herbal flavor and a pop of color inside the filling.
- Wonton wrappers (1 package, about 40): Provide the delicate, tender casing for the manti, making them easy to fold and cook.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Used to create a luscious garlic-spiced butter sauce that finishes the dish.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Brings savory depth and aromatic intensity to the butter sauce.
- Aleppo pepper or smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds mild heat and smoky flavor to the finishing sauce.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1 cup): Whisked with salt, it serves as a cool, creamy counterpoint to the warm dumplings and spiced butter.
- Salt (to taste): Essential for seasoning the yogurt sauce and overall flavor balance.
- Fresh dill or mint (optional): Provides a refreshing herbal garnish that brightens each bite.
How to Make Red Kuri Squash and Goat’s Cheese Manti Recipe
Step 1: Roast and Prepare the Squash Filling
First, preheat your oven to 400°F to get it ready for roasting. Toss the cubed red kuri squash with olive oil, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and cumin. Spreading it evenly on a baking sheet helps achieve that perfect caramelization during roasting. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes or until the squash is tender and lightly golden at the edges. Once out of the oven, allow it to cool just enough so it’s safe to handle, then mash or blend it to a smooth consistency, setting the stage for a silky filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the mashed squash with softened goat cheese and chopped fresh parsley. The creamy goat cheese enriches the filling while the parsley adds a fresh herbal note and lovely flecks of green, making the mixture vibrant and ready to be scooped into wonton wrappers.
Step 3: Assemble the Manti
Lay out a wonton wrapper and place about one teaspoon of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges with a little water to help seal. Fold the wrapper into a triangle shape and pinch all the edges firmly so the filling stays put during cooking. Continue this process until you’ve used all the filling — it’s a fun and satisfying step, almost like crafting little pillows of flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Manti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the manti in batches so they don’t overcrowd the pot. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them gently and set aside while you prepare the sauces.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce and Yogurt
In a small skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Aleppo pepper or smoked paprika, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden but not burnt. Meanwhile, whisk the plain Greek yogurt with a pinch of salt in a separate bowl to create a smooth, tangy sauce that balances the richness perfectly.
Step 6: Serve the Manti
Arrange the warm manti on plates, generously drizzle over the garlic butter, and spoon the yogurt sauce on top. If you like, finish with fresh dill or mint for that beautiful herbal brightness that completes this colorful dish.
How to Serve Red Kuri Squash and Goat’s Cheese Manti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill or mint are perfect garnishes, adding a burst of vibrant green and a refreshing contrast to the rich, warm dumplings. A light sprinkle of Aleppo pepper or a few toasted pine nuts can also add an exciting pop of flavor and texture to complete your presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve your manti alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables, like some caramelized carrots or beets, also complement the warm, comforting tones of this Red Kuri Squash and Goat’s Cheese Manti Recipe beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, plate your manti on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of the garlic-yogurt sauce and extra spiced butter for dipping. Alternatively, stack them like little towers or even serve family-style in a large beautiful bowl to encourage sharing and lively conversation around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover manti, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days. To avoid them sticking together, place parchment paper between layers.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but uncooked manti in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This lets you cook them directly from frozen by adding 1 to 2 minutes to the boiling time, making for convenient future meals.
Reheating
To reheat cooked manti, gently warm them in a covered skillet with a splash of water over medium heat or microwave on medium power until heated through, ensuring they retain their tender texture without drying out.
FAQs
Can I substitute goat cheese with another cheese?
Absolutely! Ricotta is a great alternative if you prefer a milder flavor. It keeps the creamy texture but softens the tanginess, making the filling milder while still delicious.
Is it necessary to use wonton wrappers? Can I make the dough from scratch?
Wonton wrappers are convenient and thin, making them ideal for delicate manti. However, if you enjoy making dough from scratch, a basic thin pasta dough will work beautifully and add a homemade touch.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To veganize this recipe, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese and use a non-dairy yogurt alternative. For the spiced butter sauce, try coconut oil infused with garlic and smoked paprika.
What if I don’t have Aleppo pepper? Can I use another spice?
Yes, smoked paprika is a perfect substitute that adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor. You could also use a pinch of mild chili flakes if you want a little more heat.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The Red Kuri Squash and Goat’s Cheese Manti Recipe takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes total, including prep and cooking time, making it a worthwhile project when you want a special homemade meal.
Final Thoughts
This Red Kuri Squash and Goat’s Cheese Manti Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining beautiful flavors and thoughtful textures. It’s fun to make, impressive to serve, and genuinely delicious to savor with loved ones. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire, perfect for sharing on cozy evenings or festive gatherings alike.
