Pumpkin

• Roasting pumpkin cubes with herbs and spices: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of pumpkin, creating tender, caramelized pieces perfect as a side dish or added to salads. Try tossing pumpkin cubes with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper before roasting for a savory flavor profile.
• Pureeing cooked pumpkin for pies and desserts: Transform cooked pumpkin into a smooth puree for classic pumpkin pies, muffins, cakes, and even pumpkin spice lattes. Use a food processor or blender to achieve a velvety consistency.
• Incorporating pumpkin into soups and stews: Add pumpkin puree or roasted pumpkin pieces to soups and stews for a creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Pumpkin pairs well with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating warm and comforting fall flavors.
• Using pumpkin seeds (pepitas) as a snack or garnish: Don't discard the seeds! Rinse and dry them thoroughly, then roast them with salt and spices for a crunchy and nutritious snack. Toasted pumpkin seeds also make a great garnish for salads, soups, and baked goods.
• Making pumpkin butter for toast and spreads: Homemade pumpkin butter is a delicious and easy-to-make spread for toast, muffins, or even as a filling for pastries. Simmer pumpkin puree with sugar, spices, and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a rich and flavorful condiment.
• Preserving pumpkin as jam or chutney: Extend the shelf life of your pumpkin harvest by making jam or chutney. Pumpkin jam combines the sweet and earthy flavors of pumpkin with sugar and spices, while pumpkin chutney adds a savory twist with vinegar, onions, and spices.

• Rich in Vitamin A, promoting healthy vision and immune function.
• High in antioxidants, like beta-carotene, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
• Contains potassium, helping to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
• Low in calories, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.
• May support skin health due to its high vitamin content.

Whole pumpkins should be stored in a cool, dry place like a basement or pantry, where they can last for several months. Cut pumpkin should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated; it will last for up to a week. Cooked pumpkin can be frozen for longer storage; puree it and freeze in portion-sized containers for later use in recipes.