Savory Roasted Quince with Rosemary
Transform firm, aromatic quince into a delightful savory side dish by roasting it with fresh rosemary and olive oil until tender and caramelized, perfect for pairing with roasted meats or hearty salads.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Wash the quinces thoroughly. Using a sharp vegetable peeler, carefully peel the tough outer skin. Quince is very firm, so exercise caution.
Cut each quince in half, then quarter it. Using a small spoon or paring knife, carefully scoop out the hard core and any seeds. Slice each quarter into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick wedges.
Roughly chop the leaves from two of the rosemary sprigs. Keep the third sprig whole for garnishing or adding to the pan if desired.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced quince wedges, extra virgin olive oil, chopped rosemary, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently until all quince pieces are evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned quince in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
Roast for 20 minutes. Flip the quince wedges using a spatula and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes, or until the quince is fork-tender, deeply golden, and slightly caramelized at the edges.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, garnished with the remaining fresh rosemary sprig if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choosing Quince: Select firm, blemish-free quinces that feel heavy for their size and have a strong, pleasant aroma. Avoid any with soft spots.
- 2Cutting Quince: Quince is very hard. Use a sharp, heavy knife and caution when cutting and coring. A sturdy cutting board is essential.
- 3Don't Overcrowd: Ensure the quince pieces are in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam the quince instead of roasting it, preventing proper caramelization.
- 4Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, add 2-3 smashed garlic cloves to the baking sheet during the last 15 minutes of roasting.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Replace rosemary with fresh thyme, sage, or a mix of Mediterranean herbs for a different aromatic profile.
Spiced QuinceSpiced Quince
Add a pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of chili flakes, or a touch of ground coriander to the seasoning mix for a warmer, spicier kick.
Sweet & SavorySweet & Savory
For a hint of sweetness, drizzle 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey over the quince before roasting, balancing the tartness beautifully.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Quince is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and phenolic compounds, quince helps combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Immune Support
The vitamin C content in quince contributes to a healthy immune system, helping to protect against common illnesses.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's highly recommended to peel quince for this recipe. The skin is quite tough and can be bitter, even after roasting.
